Flora 4
Wolf photo walk with wolves from the Northern Lights Wildlife Sanctuary - wolf interpretive center near Golden, BC.
Wolf photo walk with wolves from the Northern Lights Wildlife Sanctuary - wolf interpretive center near Golden, BC.
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Jul, 2015Views
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Awards
Fall Award 2020
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
Magnificent Capture
All Star
Outstanding Creativity
Superior Skill
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in the Canadian Rocky Mountains near Golden, BC.Time
This experience was unforgettable. We met up with the guides from the wolf interpretive centre in the morning of June 29. We were then briefed on what to expect from the wolves we were about to photograph and how we were to behave to avoid any conflict with the wolves. Safety first! We then loaded up in 2 vehicles - one carrying people, one carrying a couple wolves - and headed out to a remote area where we would be safe to interact with the wolves.Lighting
This morning was less than perfect. It started with a drizzling rain that soon ended with an overcast, even light. Not great for colours, but we were there to shoot wolves not brightly coloured flowers.Equipment
We were only allowed to bring minimal equipment as to deter the wolves from attempting to "steal" items from us. The less we had on us to attract attention from the wolves, the better off we were to avoid a confrontation. I had my Canon 7D MkII body with it's 18-135mm lens. No flash. No tripod.Inspiration
The adrenaline rush of having a wolf run directly at you is amazing. Thankfully, these wolves were raised in captivity and were used to humans. I loved trying to capture the swift agility of the wolves as they were running.Editing
Post processing only involved some cropping and enhancement to the clarity to bring out a bit more detail, and also increase to the vibrance to bring out the green of the grasses.In my camera bag
In my backpack while hiking, you can usually find my Canon 7D MkII. It is my favourite body as it is fairly light and slightly smaller than a full frame. I then always have my 18-135mm lens as it is a versatile, basic lens to provide the best focal length for most shots. Sometimes I bring my 70-200mm f2.8 L but it weighs me down quite a bit so it only comes along for short hikes. I then always have my 430EX flash just in case fill flash is needed, as well as a polarizing filter and ND filter.Feedback
Heading out into the mountains, be prepared for any type of weather as it can change quite quickly. Also, even though, I was on a guided hike with these particular wolves, there is always the risk of coming up on other forms of wildlife. Always be prepared for the unexpected. Carry bear spray, carry a cover for your camera and lens in case of rain (as well as a cover for yourself), and of course plenty of water. We couldn't have water or food with us while out with the wolves but we were also not far from our vehicles where the snacks were safely stored.
