New England Native?

Image Critiques Weekly Challenge
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DSC04292.JPG2736×1824 1.89 MB

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20230704_091835.jpg2016×1512 1.37 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

Yes, this Prickly Pear Cactus is indeed a native plant. Seen here on a National Wildlife Refuge island in Long Island Sound, where I volunteer. These plants thrive in an area subject to freezing temps in the Winter, in addition to storms with wind-driven salt spray. I’ve included the second photograph to better portray its environment. They are sitting on granite with a very thin layer of soil.

Specific Feedback

All comments and suggestions are welcome and thanks for viewing.

Technical Details

Sony RX10M4, ISO 64, f/10, 1/50s HH.

Critique Template

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2

Very nice images of the cacti, Jim. These have a huge range. We get them on the Pacific Northwest coast as well though mostly up on steep slopes facing the water.

3

Nice detail, color and handling of the yellows Jim. I think this is the same type of cactus we saw down at South Padre Island a couple weeks back too.

4

Jim, the yellows and greens in the first view stand out well. Yes, these are nationwide. There’s a well known clump along the Potomac south of Great Falls sitting on a very thin layer of soil with hard rocks just underneath.

5

@Mark_Seaver , @Dennis_Plank , and @Ed_Williams , thanks to all of you for your positive comments. Mark, that’s interesting that they’re so widespread too; I’ve been to Great Falls a few times and will have to look for them on my next visit.

6

Wow! I had no idea cacti could be found in such disparate environments. Amazing! Amazing depth of field in this image too. I get the sense that they go on into the distance. Your tpresentation of the yellows & greens is a lovely fresh spring statement. On my screen I scrolled the image up so that it cropped out most of the water at the top. I kinda liked it…