Well, I've shot these redbuds up close - http://www.pbase.com/ed_k/image/77411843 and from afar - http://www.pbase.com/ed_k/image/58672945 -
Here is "in-between".
Lens wide open for shallow DOF. Focus on the branch about 10 feet away through several nearer (2-3 feet) branches. Dark objects in the distance are tree trunks.