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
First of all, having a Spirit Bear walk out on a log over a trout stream in The Great Bear Rainforest, is pretty cool. Of course, I can’t take credit for him doing that. However, I was at the right place at the right time. I had been eyeing this particular log, hoping a bear would venture out onto it. I like the habitat in the shot and the slight head turn.
Creative direction
I wanted this image to scream “Other Worldly Place”. I think I succeeded in that aspect.
Specific Feedback
Composition, more than anything else.
Technical Details
Canon 1DX, Mk II
Canon 70-200 f2.8
ISO 2000
F/3.5
1/640s
High ISO’s were necessary in this low light environment. Most of my shots were at a much higher ISO when I was trying to freeze motion. Luckily, here, the subject was relatively still.
Description
This is a “Spirit Bear,” also called “Ghost Bear” or “Kermode Bear”, that resides in a small area of the Great Bear Rainforest off the coast of British Columbia. This is a black bear that possesses two recessive genes that give it a white coat. There are an estimated 400-600 of these bears in existence, all in one very small area. This bear was Named “Warrior”, due to the scar on his nose. The Canadian government actually has a stamp depicting “Warrior”.
What a special moment to be able to experience this! I think composition is good. The bear is nicely framed by the rain forest and standing on that mossy log. What else could you have asked for? You mentioned it was shot at high ISO. The image is not grainy and if it were, that is something that is easily fixable with the technology we have today. Nice shot!
Great photo! I love your story of getting the shot and also the narrative of the photo itself. Really like the framing and richness of the colors, very “ other worldly “ indeed
What a rare capture, Jerry. Yes, you are giving us the feeling of an “Other Worldly Place.” How cool is it that this bear came out on a log that you had envisioned him coming out on. You must have been blown away by this interaction. I would have been. You’ve got good detail on the bear in nice soft light in a gorgeous setting. What a special day this was for you. I might be tempted to crop or clone out the branch in the upper left corner of the frame and maybe remove the branch in the upper right portion of the frame and I would definitely burn that bright stick dropping into the water and the rock in the water right along the bottom of the frame. I would then add a vignette. Incredible, Jerry.
. Lucky you!