Hedgehog Cactus Hexagon

Image Critiques Weekly Challenge
1

Image(s)

2025-04-04-BoulderCanyon-008.jpg
2025-04-04-BoulderCanyon-008.jpg1500×1200 164 KB

Image Description

For the weekly challenge I was actually looking for a different cactus to photograph when I noticed the new growth at the tip of the hedgehog cactus has the form of a hexagon. The spines form an interesting, almost fractal-like border, as if looking into a kaleidoscope. The hedgehog is a fairly average looking cactus but the vivid purplish or red (depending on the species) are quite stunning in the spring. I found a few blossoming; most just had buds that are likely going to be blooming over the next couple of weeks.

Feedback Requests

No specific feedback is requested, but happy for any comments if you have them!

Pertinent Technical Details

105mm macro lens
f/5 (deep enough DOF to get the new growth in focus and blur out the rest of the cactus without having to focus stack)
Shot in color, edited to B&W to emphasize the new growth shape

2

I think this is fantastic! Definitely evokes a kaleidoscope. Wonderful focus and detail where needed and the focus falloff is just right. The dropout to the dark BG shows off the spines so well. B/W rocks for this! Well done!

3

Patterns on cacti spines are so intriguing and your focus and processing really make them stand out.

4

Eric: Exceptionally good vision to spot this and capture it so well. We have many cacti in our garden and I find them endlessly interesting and photogenic. This is a superbly crafted image from capture to presentation IMO. :+1: :+1:>=))>

5

What a Great Image. Beautiful tone and great lines. Perfect in B&W.