The Joshua Tree | Fujifilm X-T3 + XF100-400mm + XF1.4x TC WR Teleconverter | ISO160, f/7.1, 1/1600sec
Joshua Tree National Park, located at the crossroads of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, is only a 2.5-hour drive from Los Angeles. Of course, that depends on when you manage to escape LA, as the traffic is notorious. But, how is it that in my 10+ years of living here, I never made my way out there? California is a vast resource for exploration and wildlife, so let's go!
The stars aligned for my birthday this year, so my wife and I decided to have a mini-vacation in the desert to explore this beautiful landscape. In early March, just before spring, the weather was perfect for adventuring, as it was never too hot during the day and layers were required. Clouds painted the sky, creating an ideal backdrop for landscape photography. We were even surprised to see snow flurries on a trail and a full blanket of snow as we exited the park on our last day.
For this trip, I brought along my two Fujifilm X-T3s, accompanied by my current favorite adventure lenses: an XF16mm 1.4 and XF100-400mm + XF1.4x TC WR Teleconverter. These setups provide me with the ability to capture wildlife when it appears and beautiful wide-angle shots of those dreamy landscapes. I also prefer not to switch lenses while out in the wild, as cleaning dust or risking moisture getting in while changing is not on my personal agenda. Balancing the clouds in the background while ensuring my subjects are well lit is a priority. Getting low is the name of the game for most shots, so squats are on the menu! I keep my gear super accessible, with the 100-400mm on a Peak Design clip on my backpack and the 16mm in a Velcro case clipped to my backpack. I'm finding that this approach offers me the best array of shots.
Arch Rock | Fujifilm X-T3 + XF16mm 1.4 | ISO 160 f/10, 1/200
Our first step was to hit the popular spots so Arch Rock was priority and we certainly were not disappointed with the view. We were also fortunate that because we went mid-week there were very few people in the park. Highly recommend adventuring throughout the rock formations for that added wow-factor.
A spectacular view right around the corner from Arch Rock | Fujifilm X-T3 + XF16mm 1.4 | ISO 160, f/10, 1/480
The location of Heart Rock seemed to be a mystery to many on the trail, but it’s not really too far from Arch Rock. If you’re facing Arch Rock from the trail entry point Heart Rock would be a stone’s skip to your left (no more than a quarter mile due northeast). There is a trail, but it doesn’t seem very prevalent, so just keep an eye out for it.
Heart Rock | Fujifilm X-T3 + XF16mm 1.4 | ISO 160, f/3.6, 1/5800
Wildlife wasn’t as abundant as I would have liked, but one of my most interesting finds was right out the back gate of our AirBnb. A covey of Gambel’s quail scurried around the seeking out food in the early evenings. The XF100-400mm always handles my wildlife shots well and I was impressed to see it handle these shots so well because the sun had set and prime lighting opportunities were diminishing quickly. I was very happy with how the earthy colors really came out.
Another interesting little creature to was the Antelope Squirrel that scurried right up to my feet. Clearly fearless and familiar with people, it must know that every person on the trail is carrying something tasty on them. Keep wildlife wild - don’t feed the animals. It goes without saying - leave no waste!
Antelope Squirrel | Fujifilm X-T3 + XF100-400mm + XF1.4x TC WR Teleconverter
While the land itself was a beautiful sight, so was the sky. Clouds were abundant and glorious; making for a nice alternative to a simple sunset pic.
A snow-filled cloud floats over Joshua Tree | Fujifilm X-T3 + XF100-400mm + XF1.4x TC WR Teleconverter | ISO 160, f/8.0, 1/300 sec | Pano
If you’ve never been to Joshua Tree National Park it’s about time you find yourself a cozy little AirBnB out there for some much needed adventure, clear skies, fresh air…and maybe even some spiritual healing if you’re into it. The trip made my birthday one for the books!