Buffalo strides

I like that you were able to keep detail in both shadows and highlights. IMHO a better angle on the bison would be better. Looks like you have good sharpness, would like to see a larger image. Thanks for sharing.

The lighting is nice on the main subject with the catch light in the eye. I too appreciate the well defined muscles as they give an indication of the power and speed of bison. Good job! Chet

I think you have captured the muscle tone of this bull very well. I think however if you had been able to get ahead of him so that he was walking towards you, you likely could have not only captured the muscle tone, but also created a more visually pleasing composition. Still a great capture Lynne, I especially like the lighting in your shot.

Hi Lynne and welcome to the Wildlife Gallery. For one this image certainly shows off this body builder's muscles very well indeed and the good light helps in that respect. The fact that there is a catchlight in the eye (and to me he seems to be eying the photographer) is also a positive. Rick did bring up a valid point regarding the positioning of the animal; IF at all it were possible to get ahead of him on top of that ridge this may have turned out even better. I am looking forward to more of you image posts and comments in this Gallery.

I won't repeat observations of others, but want to note the strengths of having a good catch light in the eye, reflectivity defining the horn, the interesting badlands horizon and the accent of the flowering rabbit brush in the lower right. You might be able to brighten the lower left foreground just a bit in post processing.

Bison are such incredible photographic subjects and the frontal lighting really does accentuate his musculature as you noted . I have to get out more and visit some sites like this. I have visited Elk Island here in Alberta and some areas in southern Saskatchewan where "the buffalo roam" and appreciated how difficult it can be in the field to capture that ideal composition as they move in the scene. I really like the way you have captured the bull as he crests the hill into that sweet light. The cow in front is rather close to the edge of the frame, but again, it's tough getting in position (and stay safe !!!). Really looking forward to seeing more wildlife images from you Lynne!