When the Fog Lifted — Katmai Spring Cubs at Play
There are moments in wildlife photography that stay with you long after the shutter stops.
After breakfast, we slipped quietly into the skiff and moved through thick coastal fog, the kind that muffles sound and softens everything around you. A short walk brought us onto the meadow just as the first warm light began to push through.
Then it happened.
As the fog slowly lifted, two spring cubs emerged right in front of us — already engaged, already full of energy. Wrestling. Testing each other. Completely unaware of us.
It was one of those emotional moments in the field where everything aligns — light, behaviour, proximity.
We sat with them for nearly an hour, photographing as they playfought in that beautiful, diffused golden light. No chaos. No rush. Just pure, natural behaviour unfolding in front of us.
This is early June on the Katmai coast.
When the grass is still low, the cubs are visible, and moments like this are possible — but never guaranteed. That’s the reality of working with truly wild bears, and exactly what makes it so rewarding when it comes together.
If experiencing moments like this is why you photograph wildlife, you’ll understand why this place is so special.