The Wanderer

Face to face with the largest of all bear species, the polar bear. I think he liked me! I recall as we watched this slow, lumbering bear approach as he hugged the rugged shoreline of Hudson Bay, that he would simply stroll on past us. I was hoping for the opportunity to photograph him with the famous shipwreck, the SS Ithaca in the background.

However, as I said, he must have liked me and wanted his portrait taken! As he approached closer, he rather quickly altered his path and decided to head towards our direction and check us out. Not so close that he was within face licking distance, don’t forget that I am also using a super telephoto lens and I can fill the frame with a bear’s face from a safe distance. Still, having a knowledgeable bear guide is key. When you have a guide, it allows me to concentrate on my task at hand, making photos.

This way, I don’t always have to look over my shoulder and I can concentrate more on the subject in front of me and compose my photos. In a case like this, with a curious, approaching bear, I listen to their guidance and direction for what I may potentially need to do. This might mean nothing, other times it may be a directive to change my position to a more ready stance should I need to physically move.

Sometimes it means relocating to a position that puts our 4x4 vehicle between myself and the bear. A professional guide knows what you want as a photographer, and they will give you the best opportunity to do your job to the best of your ability in a way that is safe for both you and the bears. Having respect for the animals, the environment and your guides will take you a long way.