Look Around...

Too many times to count I have missed a great shot.  

At the top of Washburn mountain a grizzly will often pass by.   One occassion a very large group had assembled at the last turn-out before heading down the north slope.  The hope was to see the big grizzly that has unusually light colored fur.  She had walk that similar path a few times the same week.  Usually just as the sun was going over the mountain.  Almost on cue the grizzly with her two cubs appeared from over the ridge.  A mix of emotion from excitement to fear spread through the crowd.  It was difficult to photograph.  Shooting directly into the sun made for very difficult exposures.  Unless you like silhouettes.  Most were just elated to see a grizzly in the wild.  The more serious photographers frustrated with the conditions.  

As attention was focused on the grizzly and her cubs like the last note of Beethoven's 5th, I just happened to turn and see just over the hill and down from the crowd another grizzly.  Better lighting, and easier to compose.  I shot like crazy.  I was the only one getting the shots of grizzly "b".  Until I mentioned the new arrival just as the best shots were departing.  

The lesson I learned that night and have seen many, many times is that as photographers you must look all around.  Don't miss the small stuff while focused (literally) on the big shot.  The photo above was taken when I had set up for a scenic shot last week in Yellowstone.  I had my camera and the 24-70 lens on with a polarizer and a .9 ND grad filter ready.    The wait was at least 2 hours for the shot I took.  Waiting and waiting.  The ground was moving all around me.  These cute little critters were having the party of the week.  Soon I was more interested in these guys than the lighting of the scene I had set up for.  Long story short - the 600 was out quickly and set at ground level.  I had a blast photographing these hyper-active furry little guys.  WHAT A BLAST!   The big scene was still being watched though.  In the end I was very pleased to get a scenic that I had wanted for years.  I now have a file of these guys in all types of poses and actions.  Always look at every level and all around you when shooting.  The best shot just may be right behind you.