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Silverback
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Silverback

by Max Waugh

Gallery: WildlifePosted January 28, 2016149 views3 comments
I recently dug up this unpublished image from my archives.  It was taken during my 2007 visit to Rwanda.  This is the dominant silverback of the first gorilla family we visited.  Encounters with these highly endangered animals, though brief (you're limited to one hour), are a memorable experience.

In this case I liked the way he's framed by the vegetation, though the crop's a bit tight on the sides for my tastes... but it's what I had to work with, as this is nearly full frame.  I would have definitely told my former self to shoot a bit looser next time. enlightened

Anyway, I was reminded about this trip by a fascinating article published on National Geographic's site.  Apparently the gorillas are recognizing poachers' snares and dismantling them on their own.

Canon 40D
Canon 70-200mm 2.8 IS
ISO 400
1/250th
f/2.8

Max
 

Comments

3 comments
Comment posted by Richard Sandor on January 28, 2016 at 7:03 PM
Max: fine photo of a extremely impressive animal regardless of the crop. His power and strength definitely show through. Thanks for posting. Richard
Registered on January 12, 2014, 453 Posts, 1625 Comments
Comment posted by Ralph Kerr on January 30, 2016 at 9:38 AM
Max, IMO, the facial expression makes this one.  You noted the tight crop which is what you were given.  I would be tempted to experiment to crop it even tighter to just get the face, just for the fun of it.  Glad they are outsmarting the poachers too.
Registered on January 30, 2007, 369 Posts, 852 Comments
Comment posted by Lon Sharp on January 31, 2016 at 9:43 AM
Great eye contact.  I really envy the experience.  These guys are vulnerable and we are lucky some populations are under active watch.  I agree with shooting "looser" and suspect some of that is changing tastes as our equipment evolves, making super close up less startling.
Registered on December 9, 2007, 258 Posts, 9892 Comments