Bear Country USA
Bear cub at Bear Country
Bear cub at Bear Country
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Aug, 2016Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in Bear Country USA in Rapid City, South Dakota. This part of the wildlife park is called "Babyland" and its filled with baby bears.Time
It was in the morning. We were heading out from Rapid City to Custer State Park and just decided to drive though before we left town.Lighting
It was rainy so it was a gray day, but we decided to walk though "Babyland" anyway.Equipment
That's what I love about this photo. It was shot with an inexpensive point and shoot camera. I didn't want to take any good equipment out in the rain, but wanted the chance to get a quick shot or two. I love to photograph animals more than just about anything else, and a good shot to me is much more about capturing the essence of the subject than the quality of the gear.Inspiration
The cub was standing just inside of a cave in his enclosure. He clearly wanted to go out, but looked like he didn't want to get wet again, so he just stared out of the cave. He reminded me of the way a child just stares out a window hoping the rain will stop.Editing
Not much post processing was done. The photo was converted to a subtle sepia tone and the edges were burned in photoshop to darken them. That's about it.In my camera bag
I take a lot of long exposure shots on water, so I always have a number of neutral density filters so I can get the time I need. I also always have a shutter release and plenty of batteries for it (nothing is worse than having your release die miles from the car) and several different lenses ranging from 10 - 300 mm. Finally, I always take plenty of lens cleaner and cloths...stuff gets pretty dirty hiking around in the woods!Feedback
I don't think it is about photo techniques as much as it is knowing your subject. I always find that I take better pictures of animals I know well...hunting dogs, whitetail deer, horses, etc. I think it is because I know how they are "supposed to" look and when I have taken a photo that does them justice.
