Onsen magic

Lots of great detail in this one. The relaxed look on the monkey's face, the very human hands, the drops of water in the fur, etc. I like that there are other monkeys in the background which are identifiable but not distracting. The haze in the background works too as it really makes it obvious how warm the water is. Very well done.

Makes me miss my Oregon hot tub!
Delightful image - great colors, perfect dof, excellent detail in the fur and water drops.
Sandy r

I think this is the best of them all. I like the way he has just plopped down on the rock. Looks like he had a hard day and now he (or she) is relaxing at the baths. Very nice and sharp with great detail in the fur. I also like the steamy BG. One small criticism is the monkey behind to the left. I find it very slightly distracting. No big deal but it would be better if it wasn't there. The other monkeys in the BG are obscured enough by the steam so they don't distract. And maybe he could use a little more room for the hand on the right side. Looks like you almost cut it off. The steam also helps with the bright BG areas so they don't really bug me that much. Overall very well done IMO.

Where are these monkeys found in Japan? Is it like a national park? I think I heard it is on an island but I'm not sure. I think I want to go there.

Robert: These monkeys are in Jigokudani park which about 3.5 hours by train from Tokyo. We did this as a daytrip from Tokyo. It is quite easy to get there by public transport: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagano (about 2 hours), local train (50 min), short bus trip (10min) and 30 min walk.

Gary, my comments would mirror those of Robert in essence so I won't repeat them. I would only like to add that this is also the best of the series so far with regard to processing. Excellent job and a very compelling image.

I had lots of fun wachting your snow monkey series Gary, thanks for sharing them! I think this is one of my favourites, love the pose and the fact your lots of other snowmonkeys batching in the background. it's like an insight into a moneky bathhouse

Hi Gary,

I REALLY like this shot as posted and it's definitely my favourite of the series (by a mile!). I really like the composition/positioning of the subject, the inclusion of the monkeys in the background (so nicely rendered soft by the combination of steam and the DOF), and the texture and detail in the fur of the subject. And that relaxed, peaceful look on its face is priceless. Definitely one of my favourite snow monkey shots ever.

I have two very minor nits. The first is something Robert mentioned - how close the paw in the lower right corner is to the edge - would like to see slightly more room here. And, I wish the rock in the immediate foreground was a little sharper. But these hardly distract me and definitely DON'T ruin this excellent shot.

Thanks for posting this Gary - very well done from beginning to end!

Brad

Gary, the moment captured here is outstanding. I really feel the warmth and satisfaction he is getting from soaking in the pool. Plus I love the angle!

Ha, seems so relaxed. This is great. The nits were mentioned by Brad, so I won't repeat....

Wonderful image (probably my favourite of the series). Perfect details and BG.

Congrats

D&L

What a terrific finale Gary. Thanks for sharing this series with us. This is my favorite one. I love your close composition and the expression on the monkey's face.

"relax, take it easy" said a song. this fellow follow perfectly the suggestion. Robert have already said everything. Great.
Cheers Luca

I love this photo. How exciting to be able to photograph these amazing animals. He looks so relaxed. Thank you for sharing.

Laura Stafford

With most animals I believe have visible eyes is a critical component. Here you offer a perfect exception! The closed eyes and languid outstretched arm create a wonderful sense of mood. Well done! I agree that a tiny bit more space would be ideal.

This is a beautiful image! Great work!

Congrat on a fine EP!
Sandy r

Nice to see you got the EP for this shot Gary!

Gary: I'm not a critter shooter but this one is excellent and I couldn't pass up congratulating you on the WP. Terrific shot.>=))>

hi Gary, I like the "snooze pose" Good shot!

Superb, Gary. Absolutely deserves the EP. Well done.