Phoenix, Arizona - The Desert in Pastels

I normally work with vibrant colors, especially for the cactus flowers.  I worked a group of them as pastels for a different look. These were all taken at the Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix.

Rostraver, Pennsylvania - Thistles and Butterflies

Beautiful sunset light highlighting thistle while butterflies kissed each flower.  I couldn't get enough!

I am sending the multiple views to you so that you could see how pretty they were.  I recognized the butterflies from the Butterfly Pavilion in Phoenix.  I don't remember these from growing up in this area, but it is probably because I didn't pay very much attention back then.  And we are more politically correct.  "Weeds" are now called "Wild Flowers".  

These are all developed "in camera" with very little post processing.  The photos are of the same group of thistle with different camera settings.

Phoenix, Arizona - Desert Botanical Gardens in Bloom

I walked DBG today to see what was in bloom.    The agave is very pretty and in bloom as well as some cactus and other wild flowers. This is my report...no specific names given today.  Just enjoy the colors.