Wary Bear

Gallery: WildlifePosted January 6, 20151,111 views5 comments

I traveled to Churchill, Canada this past Nov. While observing from the tundra lodge deck several bears were wandering about the willows. This young fellow wandered out then spotted and older, larger bear. He briefly pondered the situation and decidedly moved on at a brisk pace. This is my first extensive experience working with "white" on white BG and overcast sky so welcome your critique. I also sharpened a bit but not sure I still have that presentable. Cloned out a few weed tips right under belly that were distracting.
I will post this one and then follow with his decision to leave.
I truly appreciate your time in viewing and welcome all critique. As an aside this trip was an awesome life experience.
Techs: Nikon D700, VR 80-400, FL 165, ISO 500, SS 1/400, F 13. exp -0.3comp.

Comments

5 comments

Comment posted by Sandra M. Apel on January 6, 2015 at 2:46 PM

This is the young fellow on the move. Forgot to add both images were handheld. Thanks again for your advise

Registered on October 15, 2013, 20 Posts, 171 Comments

Comment posted by Ken Watkins on January 7, 2015 at 12:34 AM

Sandra,
I actually much prefer the second post mainly because of the pose.
I do not mind the more "cluttered" background, details in the fur are also great

Registered on December 15, 2010, 1537 Posts, 4877 Comments

Comment posted by Patricia Brundage on January 7, 2015 at 7:57 AM

What a handsome specimen. Both images are great, but I too prefer the second pose. Great detail, exposure and composition on both. Thanks for sharing them.

Registered on March 23, 2006, 1111 Posts, 6531 Comments

Comment posted by Brad Hill on January 8, 2015 at 8:51 AM

Hi Sandra,

Both images are quite sound technically and have to say you did a very good job on the exposure in particular. I personally prefer the first post, not only because it's cleaner, but I also like the uplifted front paw (and it's more of a classic pose).

Looking forward to seeing more posts from you in the future!

Cheers...

Brad

Registered on May 29, 2007, 431 Posts, 6061 Comments

Comment posted by Lon Sharp on January 8, 2015 at 5:48 PM

Brad's comments mirror my thoughts nicely. The first, cleaner image is about as good as one could hope. If there is reflective detail in the eyes (and it is hard to determine at web size posting) I would try to enhance that a little in post processing to add some catch-light life. Also a minor thing, but in these sizes there is a slight "U" of bright edge under the black nose. That is easily remedied with selectively toning down sharpening for just that area. Great experience and these images are real keepers!

Registered on December 9, 2007, 258 Posts, 9892 Comments