Critique Style Requested: In-depth
The photographer has shared comprehensive information about their intent and creative vision for this image. Please examine the details and offer feedback on how they can most effectively realize their vision.
Self Critique
I think I captured the protective nature of this grizzly well. He was guarding his prize, without a doubt. I like the nice view of the claws and the eye contact. The area around the grizzly and elk was challenging. The different light areas were difficult to expose. I had to overexpose the grizzly a bit and then bring down the highlights in the background.
Creative direction
I wanted to convey the power of this huge grizzly and capture the lengths they go through to protect their meal.
Specific Feedback
The overall exposure of the image, as I said, was a challenge. How did I do?
Technical Details
This grizzly found a bull elk that had gotten stuck in the mud at the edge of a swampy pool. I was positioned above the grizzly on a small ridge. So, I was able to look down on the scene. The landscape separated us so that the grizzly felt comfortable. He never seemed to be stressed. This was taken in the Eastern section of Yellowstone National Park last September.
Canon R5
Canon 100-200mm zoom, telconverter engaged at 560mm
ISO 800
F/5.6
1/320s
Description
While in Yellowstone last September, I heard word that there was a big male grizzly on a bull elk. I found the spot in the Eastern part of the park. I spent the better part of four days watching this grizzly fight off rival grizzlies. It was one of my most cherished outdoor adventures I have ever had. I wanted to catch unique behavior and also nature a good view of the grizzly showing his claws and with eye contact. I think I did a decent job, considering the lighting was a challenge.