Portrait of a Black Bear
Aug, 2015Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken of an American Black Bear in captivity at the NC Zoo. Occasionally I will go to the zoo to test new equipment or just hang out and work on technique. This day I was testing a new lens and this bear just seemed to be calling to me with it's eyes. I felt like I could connect with this bear somehow and the image speaks to me in that way.Time
This image was taken in mid-morning light in partial shade.Lighting
The morning light was pouring through trees to the right and he had a rock ledge to his left providing some shade. I really like the lighting in this image because it accentuates the guard hairs of the bear and provides some mystery as the light fades off to the left of the frame. Frankly I am not sure I could have ever shot this in the wild. It is uncropped, has great lighting and the bear has a great expression.Equipment
Canon 7D, Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary at 600mm, f6.7, ISO 1600 exposed slightly to the right on the histogram.Inspiration
Of course I love wildlife in general, but bears interest me a great deal. Perhaps it is their sheer power combined with an almost child like demeanor, ,but whatever it is, I enjoy these animals to the fullest. I had been to this spot several times, but each time the bear was uncooperative and not interested in a overweight guy with a lens sticking out of his eye. This day was totally different. It was as if the bear truly was interested in me and I don't feel like it was anger. Bears are incredibly curious animals and it would seem if you catch them on the right day they are quite fun loving and enjoy showing off for the camera.Editing
I did very little post processing. I did add contrast, clarity, standard sharpening and dodged the bears left eye a bit so it didn't fall off into shadow too quickly. I can't remember but I probably lightened the other eye a bit and added clarity. This is what I normally do to my wildlife shots.In my camera bag
I usually have my 7D as my primary body, my Tamron 70-300mm SP VC , Canon 50mm 1.8, Canon 10-18mm, extension tubes, polarizer, ND filters, emergency blanket, flashlight and various lens cleaning materials. In the car, I usually have a second body ready in case the primary body fails.Feedback
In wildlife as with other disciplines, I think it helps to be patient and wait for the shot. Animals do not do what we want them to do and because of this it takes quite a bit of trial and error. You may have to return to the same location many times before it all comes together and that even applies to zoos and animal rehab centers. When the shot arises, take it and don't wait. You will never take the same shot again so don't think it will be there tomorrow. Tomorrow, the same subject may be present but all the other variables may have changed. I think that is what keeps us shooting. It is the idea that I may capture something unique and beautiful.
