This is a picture that was tucked away, hidden among a bunch of other raw files taken during a past trip to Death Valley. Obviously, unless this was Mars, the colors and look are a result of some computer software (Photomatix) and too much beer. Try not to look too long at it since the colors may burn out your retinas.
I put this image up mainly for fun, but to also point out that technology (when not abused like this), can be coaxed into bringing out the best in a photograph. Ansel Adams had a dark room, we have photoshop. Check out the article on HDR where I fumble through several techniques to see what I mean.
Ian