Joshua Tree, a photo from Arizona, West

Photographer's Note

Say "Joshua Tree" and most people think of the Joshua Tree National Forest in California. However, Arizona has its own forest of them near the now defunct town of Nothing on US 93 between mile posts 164 and 174. That section of the highway has been named the Joshua Tree Parkway.

A bit of fun information: the Joshua Tree is not a tree but a tree-like member of the yucca family. Its name probably comes from the resemblace of its greatly extended branches with their long flower stalks (best seen in spring) to Joshua's oustretched arm as he pointed his spear to the city of Ai.

ISO 200, f/4 for 6 seconds, 17mm focal length

Ilonka1974, burmaman, Royaldevon has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

burmaman (1106) 2021-02-03 3:19

Hello Mark!
Great shot of these "trees", Yuccas.
Fantastic contrast with this wonderful colord sky.
Regards,Ronny

vjmite (5424) 2021-02-03 3:21

Hi Mark,
This photo really stands out. The vivid colours of the sky and the weird shapes of the Joshua trees make a stunning combination. Perfectly exposed and nice and sharp. A classic desert photo.
Vince

Royaldevon (78060) 2021-02-03 5:47

Hello Mark,

I like your analogy of the naming of the Joshua Tree.

The tree makes a very beautiful feature, with its extended branches filling the f/g with drama and creating a fine sense of depth to the smaller examples, in the b/g.
The sky is just amazing!
The range of colours is extraordinary.
It makes a most vibrant backcloth, against which the Joshua Tree stands out purposefully.

My warm regards,
Bev :-)