2019 Winners – Floral

Dan Liu

China

1st Place – Floral

Cactus under the Scorching Sun
In Joshua Tree National Park in the United States, there is a valley called the Cholla Cactus Garden which is covered by a large number of Teddy-Bear Chollas. This species of Cholla grows freely under the scorching sun, unafraid of the heat and dryness.

Location: Joshua Tree National Park, California
Shot on iPhone XS Max

Ted Silveira

United States

2nd Place – Floral

Agave
I’ve taken quite a few photos of this agave plant, which is tucked away in the corner of a courtyard in downtown Santa Cruz, and every time I walk by it, I take another. The close-up view, especially in black & white, seems to draw out a part of the agave’s beauty that’s easy to miss in real life when it’s surrounded by flowers and sidewalks and benches.

Location: Santa Cruz, California
Shot on iPhone 7

Chuangchen Jin

China

3rd Place – Floral

Flowers in the Dark
During a trip to Shenzhen, China I was captivated by these volcanic rock steps hidden in a secluded corner, embraced by strikingly red flowers on both sides.

Location: Shenzhen, China
Shot on iPhone X

Honorable Mention