I don’t see the desert as barren at all; I see it as full and ripe. It doesn’t need to be flattered with rain. It certainly needs rain, but it does with what it has, and creates amazing beauty.~Joy Harjo
I have been racing towards multiple deadlines for the past week or so. Sometimes it feels like every moment is accounted for. But one night, I gave myself a break and looked through my photos, trying to find one that worked in monochrome for Leanne Cole’s fabulous Monochrome Madness. As my eyes lingered over the scenes, their beauty and tranquility calm me.
I selected this shot of the Arizona desert, captured during a hike last spring at Lost Dutchman State Park. It was a sublime moment. The sun was warm, the sky was a vibrant blue, and the wild flowers were in bloom. To fit Leanne’s theme, I added a sepia filter, but I’m curious what you think of the original color shot.
Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona. Shot with a Canon 40D. Sepia post-processing
Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona. Original shot in Color. Shot with a Canon 40D.
Do you prefer the color or the black and white? Do you escape into nature like me when life gets too hectic? Or, do you find peace in a yoga or exercise class or through music? Recently, I’ve gone back to swimming laps. It’s a great way to be completely “in the moment.”
I hope you have many moments of happiness, relaxation, and inspiration this week!
Categories: Photography
P.A. Moed 
I keep going back and forth between the two shots — can’t decide which I prefer! I love the composition, and those clouds set off the craggy peaks perfectly.
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Hi, Karen. Thanks so much for your thoughts. I’m in the same quandry! Have a great week with more sun than clouds. 🙂
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I like the black and white so my imagination can fill in the rest. I, too, love the desert…though only in spurts. I used to spend a lot of time in Palm Springs, California. My favorite time was right after a rain. The difference between the day before rain and the day after are much like your two photos! Both are lovely, btw.
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Hi, Leslie! Great to hear from you!
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both wonderful!
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Many thanks, Cybele. Did you get your camera yet?
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Although the B&W is lovely I do prefer the color shot. The flowers are too good to miss!! I’m with you – nature is the absolute best salve for a bad mood, altho exercise is also great. Personally I like to combine the 2 with a run or walk – it always gets the demons out!!
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Good point, Tina. So glad you stopped by and shared your thoughts.
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Many thanks, Jackie.
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The black and white has so much more mystery!
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Thanks so much, Cecilia! I appreciate your insights.
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I always love both colours and B&W, but my heart belongs to colours! Beautiful shot.
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