Desert Wildflowers

Each spring residents of Arizona predict how good the wildflower bloom will be by counting how many photographers can be seen swarming across the state.

Although my husband, Larry, and I have been part of that springtime ritual, we sensed several years ago that something was missing. The large scene with a big foreground and cactuses popping out of the desert didn't always fulfill our vision.

On the advice of a friend, Larry purchased a Nikon 60mm macro lens. Suddenly the details became the picture. Unlimited combinations of pattern, color, and form could be blended into tiny tapestries, renewing our passion for wildflower photography. Our best are in this portfolio.

W I L D F L O W E R S

A Portfolio by Donna and Larry Ulrich

(PRECEDING PANEL, PAGES 28 AND 29) Golden columbine in Travertine Canyon in Grand Canyon National Park. (BELOW) Colorado four-o'clock against banana yucca in Peach Springs Canyon on the Hualapai reservation.

(ABOVE) False garlic and Engelmann hedgehog cactus in the Tonto National Forest.

(RIGHT) Beautiful dalea at Roosevelt Lake in the Tonto National Forest.