World's Tallest Thermometer
Standing 134 feet tall along the I-15 corridor in Baker, this roadside giant was built to match the record temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit set in nearby Death Valley, and it makes for a striking and slightly absurd photographic subject against the wide Mojave Desert sky. Shoot from across the highway or from the parking lot of the adjacent businesses to get the full height of the structure in frame; a wide angle lens works well to include the surrounding desert landscape and emphasize the scale. Midday light is harsh but fitting given the location, leaning into the bleached, heat-baked aesthetic of the Mojave. Early morning or golden hour gives you warmer tones and longer shadows that add depth. The sign is lit at night, making it an easy target for long-exposure shots with the dark desert as a backdrop. Access is simple with a large parking area right off the interstate. (Baker, California, United States)
