Snow Leopard

Image Critiques Wildlife Critiques
1

leopardsnow1124mongolia16-1920px.jpg
leopardsnow1124mongolia16-1920px.jpg1920×1154 1.61 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

I wrapped up my 2024 tour slate with my Mongolia trip. Compared to my scouting trip a couple years ago, it was much quieter. As usual, we had to work hard to land good views of snow leopards. This ended up being the best photo opportunity, a fleeting moment from a few hundred meters before the cat disappeared. As far as snow leopard sightings go, it was quite good, but I’m sure we would have all loved to have more time behind the lens with this animal.

(Since the cat is small in the frame, I’ve uploaded a larger-than-normal version for viewing.)

Technical Details

Canon R5
Canon 600mm + 1.4x
ISO 2000
1/640th
f/5.6

Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
  • Emotional Impact and Mood:
  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:
2 Likes
2

A wonderful sighting here of this elusive cat, Max. I can’t imagine the difficulty you go thru to find these majestic cats. Thank you for sharing this scene with the leopard in such a remote location… :+1: :sunglasses:

1 Like
3

I can’t imagine the difficulty you go thru to find these majestic cats.

In terms of the actual exploration, I much prefer the altitude in this region, compared to the snow leopard trekking that goes on in the Himalayas (which I’ve also experienced). This part of Mongolia is closer to Yellowstone in terms of elevation. However, the terrain is pretty slippery and unstable, with a lot of loose footing. It makes for some hairy moments. :wink:

1 Like
4

Max,

Nice! It must have been very exhilarating to see and get a photo of the famed Ghost Cat. It blends in so well with its environment, and I love how it seems to be looking back at you saying “OK, you can take my picture”

1 Like
5

I can imagine the odd hairy moment on that terrain, Max. This shot gives us a great idea of its habitat, and how well camouflaged the cat is when not in snow. For me the best thing here is the good view of its beautiful tail. And the composition, with the leopard looking down austerely at you mere mortals, is very evocative.

1 Like
6

For me the best thing here is the good view of its beautiful tail.

Mike, I’m glad you mentioned that. Back in 2022, I had a dream encounter, but in my favorite photo from that day, the tail is not visible. It’s the one thing that keeps it from being a perfect photo in my book. I did get another shot with some of the tail, but I prefer the eye contact.

1 Like
7

Great Capture Max. Thank you for displaying it a bit larger as this allows one to ‘feel’ the gaze of the leopard. It also allows us to see how well camouflaged they are in their environment. And, in viewing the terrain one can appreciate how four feet would be better than two in trying navigate the area. This is one of the big cats that is still on my bucket list