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Landscape Photography Lessons From the Desert- Part 2

This is part 2 of a 3 part series about three photography lessons learned in the desert. Read part one here Stay tuned for part 3 next week.

Sunset in Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, Las Cruces, NM

Phoenix, AZ

I had a week of work in Phoenix earlier this year and decided to only take my Mamiya 645 film camera and two rolls of Kodak Tri-X with me. My goal was to shoot saguaro cactus in black and white. I still have a vision for a shot that I have yet to make happen. I scouted out a few locations online and decided to check out Lost Dutchman State Park first.

The beautiful mountains made for a great subject, with plenty of cactus around. As I was wandering around looking for compositions to shoot, I realized my first mistake. I had not paid enough attention to where the light would be. Sunset was approaching and I did was not in the best position to make use of it hitting the rugged mountains. I came away with a photo that I am happy with, but I know the area has more to offer. 
Lost Dutchman's Mine, AZ
Shot on 120 Kodak Tri-X 400 Film. Scanned silver gelatin print.
A couple days later, I explored another park in the area. After a great hike, I was back on the desert floor and browsing the cactus in the area. This time I paid attention to the direction of the light. I found a cholla that was being side lit by the sun and came away with one of my favorite film shots to date. This image works because of the direction of the light, illuminating the needles of the plant.

Cholla Cactus, Arizona
Shot on 120 Kodak Tri-X 400 Film. Scanned silver gelatin print.

The direction of the light is very important in all photography. We can use the way the light hits the subject to isolate subjects, create depth, or achieve creative effects. I like shooting side lit canyon walls in black and white and letting my shadows fall to black. When we start to think about playing with shadow and light, we can open up more creative interpretations of the landscape. 
Lesson 2 from the desert; pay attention to the direction of the light.

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