Lion-Hearted
Nov, 2015Views
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Awards
People's Choice in Animals of Africa Photo Challenge
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
Superb Composition
Peer Award
Outstanding Creativity
Magnificent Capture
Superior Skill
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
I visited the Como Zoo for the first time, and this lion stole the show. Located in St. Paul Minnesota, the zoo is celebrating its 100th year.Time
I had just entered the Big Cats enclosure, looking for the tiger. It was rather dark inside, as far as photography is concerned, and I didn't have my tripod. But it was the lion who was interested in visitors. It was an extreme challenge to get this photo, and I was lucky for a clear shot of this resting lion.Lighting
As far as lighting is concerned, it's a challenge to take photographs in busy public areas in low light, especially when there are children running in front of you putting their hands on the enclosure's glass wall.Equipment
For trips to the zoo, my favorite lens is a canon 50-250 mm zoom lens, which is mounted on my Canon T2i. It's important to have a polarizing filter on hand but a tripod is optional. Indeed, many public venues forbid tripods.Inspiration
Lion populations are declining worldwide. I find it hard to imagine wanting to live in a world without lions. It's important to understand not only the lion's plight but also the important role zoos play in helping regular people empathize with and understand lions. I was particularly pleased to catch this lion in what looks like deep contemplation. Or hunger, perhaps he thought I would make a nice snack.Editing
I performed minimal post-processing except to adjust the levels and sharpen it. It's important for me to catch nature at it's best, to create fantasy.In my camera bag
For trips to the zoo, my favorite lens is a canon 50-250 mm zoom lens, which is mounted on my Canon T2i. It's important to have a polarizing filter on hand but a tripod is optional. Indeed, many public venues forbid tripods.Feedback
In order to spy animals acting like themselves, you need to be patient and let the animal relax and do their own thing. The languid aura of this photo was a condition that existed only for a fleeting moment- I had to be ready, both in terms of camera settings and being ready to snap the photo. When visiting the zoo, I recommend focusing on one or two animals, and not trying to photograph every animal.
