Joshua Tree Claret Cup Cacti

Hi Folks,
I've been busy with the day job and am just now getting back to processing my images from a trip to Joshua Tree in early April. Over the next couple of weeks, I'll post the best 1-2 from each day of shooting. I'm going to Death Valley with Guy Tal and Michael Gordon in November, and I need to work my visual muscles again after too much writing and reading this year ;-).

Here are two crops of a patch of claret cup cactus sprouting from the porous rock/sand. Feedback appreciated as always. Both shots taken mid-day, so there are limitations.

And here is a square crop. I can't decide whether the curved rock face and texture add interest or detract too much.

Hi Marylynne , I like the first pic the best but I am wondering what you think about a crop off the top to the first rock line I like the way it simplifies things.

I see what you mean, Wade. Are you thinking a square crop or closer to 8x10?

I think an 8x10 crop would be nice.

Both photos are nice. I agree with Wade about the first image. an 8X10 crop would really set it off.

You did a very good job controlling the light. Mid-day in the desert means bright, direct and harsh light. Good job!

Thanks, guys. Here is a re-do. The trip was as much vacation with friends as photography trip, so mid-day shots were par for the week.

Looks great to me!