One of the most interesting features of Joshua Tree National Park in California is the Cholla Cactus Garden.
But, it is really hard to get a good composition here. At least that’s what I found. I was disappointed with the photos I made here last year, so this year I was determined not only to be there in good light, but to find a cholla I could isolate.
One of the reasons they are so hard to photograph is that the bottoms of them have this burnt look that isn’t very attractive. When I first saw them I thought they actually were burnt, but they are all like that.
This is the “Teddy Bear” Cholla. The name is actually pretty appropriate because like a real bear, they may look nice but believe me, you don’t want to hug it.
In fact, this type of cholla drops little pieces of itself and those pieces jump out at you as you walk by and attach themselves to your pant legs (you better be wearning long pants). Ray actually had one go through his jeans, through his socks, and into his leg.
Ok, ok, they don’t actually jump, but it sure seems that way.
That’s why they’re also called jumping cholla. Hope you didn’t get too close…
That’s a fine composition. You’re right — it’s a tough place to get a good photo. You did it though…
Thank you very much for your visit and comments PJ, much appreciated.
Anne, great shot as usual. I know this is out of you genre but I see the opportunity for a very interesting shot next time. The little yellow flowers look like eyes. There is one arm out cropping on the upper left if taken by it’s self would make a very interest cartoon creature or avatar.
Thanks for your visit and comments Ron!
Definitely appropriate name, my first instinct was I wanna cuddle it! Though being it’s a cactus I know that’s be the worst move ever heh.
I know, it looks so soft and fuzzy, but it isn’t!!
What a great photo of a beautiful cactus! 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Thank you very much Mary!
You are correct that you need to be super careful around them. I am glad you got such a great picture. I used to live in Arizona. So, I visited Joshua Tree a few times. Now, I am living in Taiwan. There is just nothing quite like the desert landscape.
Thank you very much Joshua! I bet Taiwan has it’s own special landscapes too. I appreciate your visit and comments.
Cactus can only be so soft and Beautiful through your Camera Anne..thanks for sharing such a beautiful collection..! they are so encouraging for me as a learner.!