Black Tree (View Larger)

First of all let me say that this image is best viewed larger. Joshua

Tree National Park is not a easy place to photograph. There are

numerous boulders in a very wide range of sizes. Some of them weighing

hundreds of tons and stacked one atop another.For this reason this is

a climbers paradise; one can scale many of these boulder mountains in

a single day. These boulders also make for a cluttered photograph.

Just too many things to see in one image. The trick is have some sort

of theme which isn't overshadowed by the numerous boulders. I believe

this image does do just that. The black tree is strong enough to draw

enough attention away from the boulder bonanza. I toned this image in

selenium to further the rich black of the tree.

Great shot Leo... It reminds me of a Shatner Star Trek alien planet; very surreal, and stark. Beautiful range of tones, detail and you are correct, the black tree and the light colored grass grab your attention first. Further examination reveals all the fine details throughout... Mike

 

 

Leo, exceptional photograph! Really like the light you have coming off the boulders. A lot of different things in this shot but as always you made them come together in one great photograph...RAY

This photo has a special quality. It is not just beautiful, its composition is creating a sort of tension in the viewer. I would like to see the coloured version of it as well. Best regards.

A fabulous subject with a full range of tones. You have done well to get this very satisfying composition from such a potentialy confused scene.

Simon

Striking tones, lighting and contrast.... VERY Well Composed!!! Stunning B&W Landscape!!!

I absolutely agree that the black tree commands our attention in what otherwise could have been a very cluttered scene. And the white-ish grass in the front left is quite a nice contrast to the black tree. The B&W tones are really exceptional here, and the clarity is just amazing! And aside from the technical aspects, I really just love it on an aesthetic level. Bravo!!!

Leo, That tree makes the shot. Gives it an otherworldly feeling. Nice work. Dean