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2. Deadvlei's Red Skies
Camera: Canon Powershot SX70 HS
Where to Purchase: Canon
Price: $599
The surreal image captured in this photograph is so vivid that it almost resembles a piece of Salvador Dali's artwork. However, as National Geographic photographer Hamish Mitchell can attest, it’s a stunning reality. He took this breathtaking shot at Namibia's Namib-Naukluft Park, specifically next to Sossusvlei, where a striking white clay salt pan known as Deadvlei lies.
Deadvlei is renowned for its otherworldly landscape, featuring ancient, blackened trees set against a backdrop of towering red dunes and a brilliant blue sky. The stark contrast of colors and the unique formations create a dreamlike atmosphere that captivates all who visit.
In conclusion, the Canon Powershot SX70 HS, priced at $599, is an excellent choice for capturing such extraordinary scenes. With its impressive zoom capabilities and high-quality imaging, this camera allows photographers to document the surreal beauty of places like Deadvlei, bringing the essence of Namibia's landscapes to life.
The name "Deadvlei" translates to "Dead Marsh," and it perfectly encapsulates the haunting beauty of this unique landscape. Towering red sand dunes, reaching heights of up to 350 feet, rise dramatically behind the stark white clay pan, creating a striking visual effect that echoes the vibrant colors of the sky.
Scattered throughout this surreal setting are the remains of dead camel-thorn trees, some of which are estimated to be between 600 and 700 years old. These ancient trees stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, their gnarled forms contrasting sharply with the smooth, white clay beneath them. The entire scene is incredibly bizarre, as the dunes have effectively cut off the water supply to these once-thriving trees, leaving them in a state of eerie preservation.
In conclusion, Deadvlei is not just a beautiful destination; it is a testament to the power of nature and the passage of time. The combination of the vibrant dunes, the stark clay, and the ancient trees creates a mesmerizing landscape that captivates all who visit, making it a must-see for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
