Baby Gorilla

Although I rarely get to see them in captivity (and I'm still dreaming of seeing ones in the wild!) Gorillas are my favourite apes, so first and foremost, many thanks for sharing this one with us Andrew :^)

I think you've done very well on the exposure, although you still might be able to get a little more strength in the blacks working the Shadow & Highlights in PS. It' not easy to see too clearly on an image of this size (would be easier if you'd added a larger version as well!), but from what I can see here the fur on the head doesn't' appear to be as detailed as it could; you may be able to enhance this further with a little sharpening in PS or with similar software.

As to the interest factor, while a backward flip might have been a little more dramatic, a simple candid moment of such an adorable animals is more than enough ;^) That said, had you managed to capture the subject as it was looking up and/or in your direction, I think the eyes would have been all the more compelling.

Re your comment, "I know that captive animals are not the norm here and this is my first. Probably my last.", I guess this means you haven't had the opportunity to look at many if any of the photos I've posted up here in the Wildlife gallery ;^)

Seriously, I sincerely hope this won't be the last captive animal you show us, as I for one would very much like to see more, please and thanks in advance :^)

I think you did a fine job with the exposure. Composition of generally static subjects can be a real challenge and this works okay. My first instinct was to suggest removing some of the space above him, but then you are creating a more square format, so this might be the best compromise. As for processing, the only thing I would do here is experiment with some minor tweaks of facial areas to maximize contrast in order to emphasize details. The stick of grass between the lips is a strong element!