Desert Weekend in Joshua Tree

Posted by: Greg Clure

Marh 7 - 9, 2014 -- Two large desert ecosystems mostly determined by elevation come together at Joshua Tree National Park. Below 3,000 feet, the Colorado Desert occupies the parks eastern half. It is dominated by abundant creosote bushes and accentuated by stands of spidery ocotillo and jumping cholla cactus. Higher, moister, slightly cooler, the Mojave Desert hosts the signature Joshua tree. Extensive stands characterize the park’s western half along with weathered granite peaks, outcroppings and boulders. During this time of year the Joshua trees will likely be in full bloom sending out large spikes of creamy yellow flowers along with other cactus and desert annuals. Our weekend will focus on capturing the best stands of Joshua trees at sunset and during a night photography session we will try our hand at some light painting with the Joshua trees as our foreground and the stars in the background, assuming we have clear skies. We will also photograph the dense stands of cholla cactus, the reflections at Barker Dam, Hidden Valley, a palm tree oasis and the quickly becoming iconic monolith and juniper. Join me for a weekend photo workshop tour of Joshua Tree National Park in bloom for some classic desert imagery.