Black Bear in Fall Colors

[David_Haynes]

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

This image was taken in the Tetons a few weeks ago during Fall colors. I had heard from a few people that there were some black bears climbing some trees in an area I knew well and so I decided to try my luck at getting some shots. It took two days worth of driving around the area but on day two I was rewarded with a small black bear that had climbed a berry tree and was munching away. The berry trees were in full Fall color mode as well.

Specific Feedback

I did not have a polarizing filter when I shot this so some of the leaves are pretty bright. I tried to tone most of them down in post. Are some still too bright?

Technical Details

Z9, 180-600 @370mm, ISO 1250, F/6, 1/640 hand held, Manual Exposure

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[JRajput]

A stunning frame, so beautifully captured !
I may prefer to do some experiments with the luminosity of leaves.
Cheers !

[Kris_Smith (Kristen M Smith)]

How did I miss this one? What an endearing pose - mindless berry eating! The lightness of the leaves works to emphasize the darkness of the bear’s fur and frame it as well. Love the open mouth and the direct look, too. You could do a judicious mask or two to lighten the eyes a bit and the mouth and berries. Super job and what a great opportuntiy.

[Max_Waugh]

Very nice, David. I know how difficult it can be photographing in this area given the traffic and management. You did well to get at eye level and I’m happy you centered the bear in a horizontal frame to emphasize those excellent leafy surroundings.