When nature provides ample moisture in the western United States and the Rocky Mountain region, I admit I become obsessed with photographing flowers. The paintbrush continue to amaze me.  Thus, you are being subjected to yet another paintbrush-studded blog.  My apologies, but it can't be helped!  The good thing about indulging in this photographic obsession is that I make myself move in different ways, trying to capture varying angles, and shooting at different times of day.  I headed out for this shoot around 8:30 in the morning, utilizing the lower light, and the backlight to emphasize color and shadow. On my side and on my rear, standing and squatting, my mission was to achieve shots that are at least somewhat out of the ordinary. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. But here are six more of the hundreds I have taken of paintbrush this season.

Sagebrush makes a beautiful backdrop - in both color and texture - for the flowers that grow in between the sage leaves. 

paintbrush shoot 15 June 2019 - 2  

The paintbrush flowers in the image below look fairly typical but the windswept look of the sage skeleton behind the blooms adds interest.

paintbrush shoot 15 June 2019 - 6

In this shot, my intention was to give the flower and buds some "breathing room" or depth.

paintbrush shoot 15 June 2019 - 3

Here are two slightly closer shots, using the cracked earth as the backdrop.

paintbrush shoot 15 June 2019 - 4

paintbrush shoot 15 June 2019 - 1

A single "prairie fire" flame of the Castilleja on the mesa

paintbrush shoot 15 June 2019 - 5

Thanks to Sam, TTT, Ingrid, Barbara, Dianne, Ellen, Christina, Steve, Catherine, Lawrence, Heather, Elida, Bill, and Carolyn for your kind comments!

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image@