Photo By Jeff Nigro

Today’s Photo Of The Day is “Winter Colors” by Jeff Nigro.

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Wouldn’t it be nice to conjure up majestic light on immaculate subjects any time of day? 5 a.m. wake-up calls to capture the sweet light of sunrise would no longer be necessary. Romantic sunsets with loved ones could occur every evening. Going to bed on a full stomach at 9 p.m. could become a thing of the past. The tradeoff is your subject matter will be restricted, but your subjects will still have allure. The shift in gears would have you limit your subject matter, but it wouldn’t be a trade-off because fabricating fabulous florals is fun and fascinating.

Flowers are like magnets. Their colors, shapes, forms and textures attract us, compel us to record them and whisper in our ears to experiment with light, the angle, grouping and more. Their beauty drives us to find the perfect specimen. Nature photographers are instinctively drawn to them, which makes them an often photographed subject. What is it that separates a good floral image from an ordinary one? Three main factors enter “the picture.” No one factor alone makes the photograph work. It’s a combination of light, controlling the background and specimen choice.

Quality Of Light In Flower Photography

As with any subject, the quality of light plays a huge role in what makes or breaks the image. Because of a flower’s small size, harsh natural light can be modified or augmented with easy-to-carry, inexpensive equipment to give the flower a more pleasing look. During mid-day when the light is hard and contrasty, it can be softened through the use of reflectors, flash or diffusion material. When skies are dark and gray, flash can be utilized as a main light to provide highlights and sparkle.

Nature photographers know that sunrise and sunset bestows warm and beautiful color and that late morning, mid-day and early afternoon light should be avoided. It’s during these times we nap, download, clean gear and answer emails and texts. Overhead light creates bright highlights and deep, black shadows. This light isn’t conducive to good photography. HDR captures can help soften the contrast, but they can’t change the modeling of the light. Highlights blow out and shadows go black. But, when we work with small subjects, we can modify the light via the use of reflectors, flash, diffusers, women’s makeup mirrors, umbrellas and more. Light can be added to the shadow areas and contrast can be softened.

Using A Reflector

A reflector adds light to dark areas of the flower and/or its surroundings. This reduces contrast between the brightest and shadowed parts. The light becomes more pleasing and even. With your eye to the viewfinder, angle the reflector so the highlight portions soften. The bounced light should be directed toward the shadow areas to open them up.

Don’t let your creativity stop here. Depending on what you use as a reflector, the contrast can be controlled to a greater or lesser degree. Mirrors reflect the greatest amount of light and also create a narrow sharp beam. The larger the mirror the wider the reflection. Foil or silver reflectors are another way to bounce back a considerable amount of light. A plain white card will bounce back the least amount but create a softer wraparound effect. To more closely convey sunrise or sunset conditions, add warmth to the image. Gold foil or warm tone reflectors work great to impart this effect.

Flash can also be used to soften the contrast. The use of fill flash has become easy in comparison to years ago. Camera bodies and flashes communicate with each other so an easily obtainable balance between the ambient light and flash output can occur.

Many flowers have multi-colored sections that range in tone from bright white to deeply saturated dark hues. Depending on the contrast between the bright and dark areas, use varying amounts of fill flash to lessen the range. My go-to setting is -1 flash compensation and I adjust from there. This fills in light on the darker parts of the flower yet has no impact on the highlights. In essence, the flash brightens the shadows while the sun determines the exposure on the bright sections. When the contrast is high, use more fill. When the conditions are soft, use less. Check the LCD and scan the entire screen to fine-tune the amount.

Using Off-Camera Flash For Flower Photography

When thick clouds dominate the sky, the skies are gray. This dull light gets reflected onto the flower and creates a flat look. I rescue the light with off-camera flash. I use up to three flashes that are triggered wirelessly. One flash is offset to the side of the flower, another lights it from down low and a third is sometimes used to illuminate the background. All the flashes read the subject using TTL and I adjust the output using the power ratio. I sometimes use a tiny softbox on the head of the main flash to diffuse and soften its quality. A good technique to incorporate for the third flash is to backlight the main flower to give it a rim lit glow effect! In the amount of space I have in the weekly Tip of the Week, a detailed how-to is tough to explain, but I encourage you to take charge and learn how to use a multiple flash system with small subjects.

My favorite condition under which I photograph flowers is bright overcast. Shadows are soft yet apparent, highlights are held in check and colors saturate. It’s simple to meter the image because the contrast range is compressed and provides evenly-lit, wonderful-to-look-at photographs. When Mother Nature readily accommodates me with bright overcast skies, I exploit these conditions and head to my backyard, open field or botanical gardens.

Using A Diffuser

When the sun is intense, bright overcast conditions can be mimicked using white diffusion material between it and the subject. Whenever it’s sunny, I always carry a small white photographic umbrella to soften its intensity. To exhaust all my photographic possibilities, I take some photos using the diffuser and some without and decide which one I like better when I view them on my computer. If you’re shooting with a friend and you don’t have a diffuser, have the person cast a shadow across the image area to produce nearly the same effect.

Be sure to check back next week when we’ll discuss ways to control the background in your flower photography.

To learn more about this subject, join me on a photo safari to Tanzania. Visit www.russburdenphotography.com to get more information.

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If you’re planning an overnight trip to Joshua Tree National Park and wondering where to camp, then you’ve come to the right place. There are plenty of amazing campgrounds in Joshua Tree but, like most destinations, they’re not one size fits all.

Located in south central California, just a few hours from both Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park is famed for its unique “trees” of the same name, incredible hiking trails, dark sky areas, and interesting rock formations.

People tend to come here to spend time in nature as a refuge from the city, but it’s truly a paradise whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or simply someone craving a break in the Mojave Desert.

This must-read guide to camping in Joshua tree includes how to get there, when to go, the best campsites, and more!

Camping In Joshua Tree (When To Go & The Best Campgrounds)

How to Get To Joshua Tree

To get to Joshua Tree National Park, you’ll first have to get to a nearby major city. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is the closest airport at about 50 miles away, while Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 143 miles and Las Vegas International Airport (LAS) is 182 miles.

Then, once you land in one of these cities, you’ll have to rent a car. While there is some public transportation in the area, it’s quite limited and the park itself doesn’t have a shuttle service. I recommend renting a car right at the airport and then traveling to Joshua Tree via Interstate 10 or California Highway 62.

Read more: The Ultimate Packing List for Campers (Must-Have Essentials!)

How Many Days Do I Need in Joshua Tree?

While you can probably see Joshua Tree National Park’s highlights in a day, if you want to go hiking or explore more of the off-road sites, then I’d recommend at least 2-3 days.

Of course, if you’re coming here for a mental vacation in the desert, then there’s no time limit to how long you should stay in Joshua Tree.

Read more: The Best Places to Camp in California

When to Camp in Joshua Tree

The best time to camp in Joshua Tree is during the shoulder seasons — March through May and September through November. Summers are super hot and, unless you have electricity and bring a heater, winter can be a tad chilly.

That said, November through May is the busiest time of year at Joshua Tree, so definitely book your campsite ahead if you want to secure a spot.

Can You Camp in Joshua Tree Without a Reservation?

Most of Joshua Tree National Park’s 500 campsites are available to book by reservation, which you can do online up to 6 months ahead of time at recreation.gov. Campsites in some areas tend to sell out though, so I do recommend booking ahead of time. Plus, much of the park does not have cell service, so don’t plan to book on the fly.

Campgrounds at Joshua Tree that don’t require a reservation are Hidden Valley, Belle, and White Tank. These are first-come, first-served, and you can pay upon entry. Just keep in mind that these sites tend to be jam-packed during the busy season, especially during weekends, so plan to get there as early in the week as possible.

For more information, visit nps.gov.

Which Campground is Best in Joshua Tree?

Though there are hotels and other accommodations in the surrounding areas, if you want to stay overnight in the park itself, then you’ll have to book a campsite. Thankfully, there are 9 awesome campgrounds in the park to choose from — my favorites are Hidden Valley, Indian Cove, and Jumbo Rocks (although they do tend to book up fast).

Of course, which campground you choose depends on what you’re looking for. Here’s what to expect from each of them.

Read more: 20 Genius Camping Hacks Every Camper Should Know

Best Joshua Tree Campgrounds

Jumbo Rocks Campground

With 124 campsites, Jumbo Rocks Campground is the largest camping area at Joshua Tree. The scenery here is excellent, with large boulders that you can climb, and the famous Skull Rock is just a short hike away. While there are picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, and trash and recycling pickup at this location, there is no electricity or potable water.

Hidden Valley Campground

A first-come, first-served location, Hidden Valley Campground is open year-round and features 44 sites with pit toilets but no potable water. There are some RV slots here, provided your vehicle doesn’t exceed 25 feet, and fees must be paid at the entrance station upon arrival.

This is an extremely popular campground, given that it’s centrally located and in easy reach of most sites, so if you travel during the busy season, then you’ll have to come at the right time to get a site.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide To Vegan Camping

White Tank Campground

One of the smallest campgrounds in Joshua Tree, White Tank is home to just 15 sites. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful escape without too many people around, and it’s located directly next to Arch Rock Nature Trail. Sites here are first-come-first-served and don’t provide electrical hookups or water.

Sheep Pass Campground

Home to six group campsites, Sheep Pass Campground should be on your radar if you’re accommodating a group of between 10 and 60 people. Though the campground has vault toilets and trash pickup, it does not have electricity or potable water.

Read more: Travel Trailer Packing List For Beginners (Detailed Guide)

Belle Campground

Featuring 18 campsites, Belle Campground is open from October through May and is the place to be if you’re looking for another quiet retreat. It’s fairly close to both Pinto Basin and the Sonoran Desert area of the park and provides pit toilets, campfire rings, and picnic tables. It doesn’t have potable water or electricity.

Ryan Campground

With 31 campsites close to the California Riding & Hiking Trail, Ryan Campground tends to fill up fast. Booking here requires a reservation in advance but features fire pits, vault toilets, and picnic tables. The sites here are non electric and don’t have potable water.

Indian Cove Campground

Close to some great rock formations, Indian Cove Campground is located away from many of the park’s main sites but is the place to be if you’re a rock climber or are just interested in being away from crowds. The campground features 101 campsites and vault toilets, but no potable water.

Cottonwood Campground

Home to 62 campsites in the Sonoran Desert, Cottonwood Campground may be away from the Joshua Trees but is home to flush toilets and potable water. The campground is also great for easy access to Mastodon Peak, Los Palms Oasis, and Cottonwood Visitor Center.

Black Rock Canyon Campground

Located on the western side of the park, Black Rock Canyon Campground is away from the park’s main sites but features 99 sites, flushing toilets, and easy access to plenty of hikes. The campground also has cell phone reception and WiFi.

Read more: Camping Tips and Tricks for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

Best Campgrounds Near Joshua Tree National Park

If you get to Joshua Tree and find that all the sites are full, then don’t sweat it — there are some more options nearby!

BLM Camping

BLM (Bureau of Land Management) camping is free-range camping on designated pieces of land. Though these sites don’t have any amenities or rangers, they’re great if you are self-sufficient and want to go off-grid. You can find BLM Camping at BLM.gov, and remember to pack all your trash out!

Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

Located at 2601 Sunfair Road in the Joshua Tree municipality, Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground is great whether you’re in an RV or tent. Just 30 minutes from the park, the campground features potable water, firepits, and showers.

Twentynine Palms RV Resort

A campground that also has cottages, Twentynine Palms RV Resort is a higher-end location with electrical hookups, a gym, pool, game room, bathrooms, and showers.

Read more: Best Small Travel Trailers (Under 2,000 Pounds)

Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park

Cap Rock

Located near Twentynine Palms, The Cap Rock Nature Trail is a 0.6 mile loop that will take you through woodlands and wildflowers and over to towering rock formations. For those familiar with the story, this is also where you’ll find Gram Parsons’ memorial. With just 20 feet elevation gain, this trail is rated as easy.

Black Rock Canyon and Panorama Loop

A 6.5-mile heavily-trafficked trail, the Black Rock Canyon and Panorama Loop will give you one of the best views in the park. The hike begins at the the Black Rock Canyon Campground visitors center, is ranked as moderate, and is great for wildflower viewing. Hot Tip: Do this hike clockwise for an easier trek back to the trailhead.

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail

One of the most popular trails in the park, the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail is a 3.1-mile out-and-back trail that has 700 feet of elevation and is rated as moderate. The trail features one of the most unique landscapes in the park given that it leads you right towards a gorgeous palm fan oasis.

Cholla Cactus Trail

Though the park is known for its Joshua Trees, chances are you’ve seen photos of the Cholla Cactuses that also call it home. These fuzzy cacti are best found on the Cholla Cactus Trail, a 0.25-mile trail rated as easy. Though the trail will only take you a few minutes to traverse, this area is super popular for photography – just don’t touch the cacti, they’re very prickly.

Barker Dam

A trail known for its water source (a rarity in the desert), Barker Dam is a 1-mile loop that is famed for its sunsets and bighorn sheep spotting. With just 50-feet of elevation, this trail is rated as easy and will take you about an hour to finish.

Read more: 15 Best Weekend Getaways in California (& Where to Stay!)

What to Pack for Camping in Joshua Tree

Camping Supplies: Camping in Joshua Tree means loading up with quality camping gear. In particular, every trip requires a durable tent, camp chair, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, lightweight backpack, and hammock (only hang hammocks in designated areas, and not on Joshua Trees). I also recommend bringing headlamps and lanterns for walking around at night.

Clothing: Winters in Joshua Tree tend to range from moderately warm to chilly, so you’ll want to pack appropriately for the season. However, regardless of month, the best way to pack is to bring light layers that you can stack them depending on the temperature. You’ll want some moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, and hiking pants.

Shoes: Grippy closed-toe hiking shoes are a must in Joshua Tree to easily traverse the trail and avoid any creepy crawlies.

Toiletries: Sunscreen, bug spray, after bite, deodorant, wet wipes, dry shampoo, and hand sanitizer are essentials for Joshua Tree camping.

Cooking Gear:  A camp stove and cooking set are musts for making your own food in Joshua Tree.

Water: Because potable water isn’t found at every campsite in Joshua Tree, you’re going to want to bring enough to last you throughout your camping trip. I recommend bringing a refillable jug, hydration bladder, and water bottle.

Electronics: California camping trips require a portable power bank, a kindle, and a GoPro.

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