Open Desert Beneath a Breaking Storm
A broad expanse of high desert stretches beneath dramatic, shifting clouds near El Malpais National Monument in New Mexico. Sparse shrubs, junipers, and dry grasses break across the rust-colored ground while distant mesas line the horizon. Patches of blue sky emerging between the storm clouds add contrast to the open, windswept landscape.
#EngelPhotography #NewMexico #ElMalpais #HighDesert #DesertLandscape #Juniper #Mesa #StormClouds #DramaticSky #LandscapePhotography #NaturePhotography #SouthwestPhotography #AmericanSouthwest #NewMexicoLandscape #DesertScenery
#EngelPhotography #NewMexico #ElMalpais #HighDesert #DesertLandscape #Juniper #Mesa #StormClouds #DramaticSky #LandscapePhotography #NaturePhotography #SouthwestPhotography #AmericanSouthwest #NewMexicoLandscape #DesertScenery
Photographer
James Engel
Date & Time
Saturday, March 28th, 2026 at 5:25 PM America/Denver
Focal Length
28mm
Shutter Speed
1/125 sec
Aperture
ƒ/3.8
ISO
80
Location
North America, The United States of America, New Mexico, El Malpais National Monument, Zuni-Acoma Trailhead, Zuni-Acoma Trailhead Area
Keywords
Desert Landscape, Juniper, Landscapes & Nature, National Park, Panorama, Plant, Scenic Vista
Camera
Nikon D850
Approximate Map Location
Latitude: 34.955917
Longitude: -107.942711
Altitude: 2,119.0 meters / 6,952.1 feet
Longitude: -107.942711
Altitude: 2,119.0 meters / 6,952.1 feet