There are moments in wildlife photography when you can't help but feel a connection with your subject—a sense that they're almost performing for you. I'm convinced that sometimes, just sometimes, bears know when they've landed a prize, and they absolutely show it off. It's in the way they shake a freshly caught salmon, eyes glancing towards yours, like a playful puppy proud of its favourite toy.

For a split second, I almost regretted my gear setup—shooting with the Sony a1 II and the 400-800mm lens, vertically framed at the full 800mm focal length. The action happened so fast, I was sure I'd clip the salmon's tail right out of the frame. But that's the thrill of it, isn't it? Being ready for anything, anticipating the moment, and trusting your instincts to compose in-camera rather than relying on massive crops later.

This coastal brown bear, salmon dripping in mid-shake, gave me that moment. Every water droplet, every scale, frozen in a tight vertical frame that tells the whole story: a successful hunt, and a proud—maybe even theatrical—display.

Here's to those fleeting encounters that remind us why we wait, why we prepare, and why we keep coming back for more.

More Kudos

“Thank you for an amazing trip (Sept. 2025 Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska). The preparation and years of experience made my investment a life-changing event. I have dreamt of doing a trip like this and always worry that what is marketed on a website is what you will actually experience. Every single piece of this trip was perfect. I can’t imagine how much work you put into every big moment and every single small moment that added up. I have already told so many people about my trip and told them they would have nothing to worry about if they booked with you. Look forward to seeing you on some of your upcoming trips. Puffins are on my shortlist!

Thank you very much for being so professional and a great guide and mentor.”

Mike McGugan Ontario | Canada