Here are 2 shots of yours truly, compliments of Steve Fines (SteveF). These were taken last weekend during a day photographing black bears at the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary in Orr, MN. Funny - these guys were so close a long lens wasn't needed much of the time.
Here is a picture of me caught in a mirror during a shoot on Canada Day of a Non-Profit Cabaret song and dance charity show put on every year. Yes, those are one of the dancers legs... It is my 20D with 24-70L. http://www.pbase.com/image/45665268/large.jpg
no, the owner was standing right next to me, as I took the photo. The guy in the picture was "showing him how its done". The camera didnt even get wet. The owner was still a little bewildered.
I am just curious: is it a good idea to get so close to those bears? Does the park/sanctuary not have any policies regarding tourist safety? If it is a sanctuary, should not the authorities try to give the wildlife a more natural environment?
I am not trying to question your behavior (you were probably just following the "protocols" at the park), but I am rather disturbed by these pictures, as close encounters with humans will undoubtedly alter animal behavior (disclaimer: I am a member of the National Wildlife Federation and the Nature Conservancy). I know I probably should not take these pictures out of the context, but it does not seem that the "Sanctuary" is doing an adequate job.
Howard
SWCoulter wrote:
Here are 2 shots of yours truly, compliments of Steve Fines (SteveF). These were taken last weekend during a day photographing black bears at the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary in Orr, MN. Funny - these guys were so close a long lens wasn't needed much of the time.
howard wrote:
I am just curious: is it a good idea to get so close to those bears? Does the park/sanctuary not have any policies regarding tourist safety? If it is a sanctuary, should not the authorities try to give the wildlife a more natural environment?
I am not trying to question your behavior (you were probably just following the "protocols" at the park), but I am rather disturbed by these pictures, as close encounters with humans will undoubtedly alter animal behavior (disclaimer: I am a member of the National Wildlife Federation and the Nature Conservancy). I know I probably should not take these pictures out of the context, but it does not seem that the "Sanctuary" is doing an adequate job.
Good question Howard and one can certainly see the reasons for concern. The sanctuary does not allow anyone on the ground unless they have been checked out on the bear safety and behavior and house rules. There is also a limit of 3 photographers, unless part of a workshop.
Thanks, Scott, for your answers and the information you privided. Now this sanctuary will be on my list of places to visit in the future (I really want to check it out now!).
Howard
SWCoulter wrote:
Good question Howard and one can certainly see the reasons for concern. The sanctuary does not allow anyone on the ground unless they have been checked out on the bear safety and behavior and house rules. There is also a limit of 3 photographers, unless part of a workshop.
Ryguyinlj wrote:
no, the owner was standing right next to me, as I took the photo. The guy in the picture was "showing him how its done". The camera didnt even get wet. The owner was still a little bewildered.
beforehand or did he have to find this out after scraping of tons of salt from his 20D body 
