Boyce Thompson Arboretum

One of our favourite places to visit when we are in Gold Canyon is Boyce Thompson Arboretum (BTA).  So many different plants, cactus, birds and flowers in such a condensed area.  The scenes change with the season and also the time of day so always seem to find something different to shoot.  We have purchased annual passes most years we are in GC and have always got our moneys worth.  As part of our annual membership we also receive 2 passes so we can bring guests.  We are always able to find someone to take for their first visit to this little garden of eden.  

A few years ago I discovered that they have a camera club meeting once a month to discuss photography, editing and sharing of pictures.  The cost is the price of admission to BTA and having the annual membership covers my attendance at their meetings.  Since the Covid shutdown they have been having meetings by Zoom so the added benefit is that I can keep in touch even when we are back home for the summers.  
  
The next few posts will be pictures taken at BTA during this past winter.  

Taken in the Demonstration Garden.
A rock wall with a viewing port to the new Wallace Garden.
I kind of like the effect.  Like looking through a portal to another world. 

A little macro shot of flower in full bloom

So many colours

The berries provide vibrant colour and also food for the birds. 

I attended a presentation by a wildlife photographer and he took
us on a walk around giving us tips on shooting birds.
Very informative.

One of the tips he provided was how to use a flash to get a vibrant
picture of a flower set against a black background.  I didn't have a
flash but underexposed the picture on purpose and then
brightened the flower and leaves in post leaving the background black.
Had never tried this before but it worked pretty well.  

These pictures were taken in the new rose garden.
Taken in November so was the end of the season.
Hope to get more this year but who knows. 

 Thats all for today.  Hopefully more tomorrow.