Same black bear... not yawning....

[jckegley]

This photo is metered even worse than the first. I really don't like it much but I think it shows a contrasting emotion from the 'yawn' photo.

This shot was taken seconds after the yawn photo. In the 'yawn' photo I don't think the bear is aware of my presence yet. He is not looking directly at me.

In this photo the bear doesn't look as content as before. I think he looks a little surprised and aggravated. He came down out of the tree moments later. It's amazing how fast a bear can come out of a tree. I was also impressed with how fast I could move through a briar patch, didn't realize I had it in me.

Cades Cove - Black Bears (http://www.wildlifesouth.com/Locations/Tennessee/CadesCove.html)

[rpk717]

That look in his eyes does not convey a "I want to be your friend" message. There are many things that I consider good motivators; compliments from your boss, a bonus on your paycheck, and in this case a ticked off black bear. I'm not surprised you were able to move quickly through the brier patch given that you were properly motivated. :)

[mrsisu]

There's no question that look would have motivated me as it did you. Got to know when to hold them and when to fold them! :)

[ecarlisle]

Great shot of a bears expression. Looks surprised and ready to do something about it. Sometimes you can't worry about the technical part, just get the shot!
Eleanor

[ecarlisle]

Great shot of a bear's expression. Looks surprised and ready to do something about it. Sometimes you can't worry about the technical part, just get the shot, and in this case, run!
Eleanor

[jckegley]

I thought the expressions on both photos were good also. I just wish the metering was better.

The bear was pretty small and probably full of wild cherries, I am positive he didn't think of me as a meal, but more as a threat. He just wanted to get away from me and I wanted to give him a clear path to do so.... for both our safety.

[Photobiologist]

Yep, tough metering conditions - lots of darks & lots of lights. I think exposing for the bear was the right choice. I like the expression here as well - he looks somewhat startled.