Sentinel

While planning my expedition to photograph polar bears, I had a specific photograph in mind. Photographers often have that “dream shot” in the back of their heads, that elusive image where everything aligns perfectly: the moment, the weather, the angle, the gear, and being at the exact right spot at the exact right time. As the expedition drew to a close, on that last afternoon, it finally happened. One solitary bear, resting in the exact position I wanted, on immaculate snow. We stopped the car, and I explained to my guide that this was the moment, the image I had been preparing for months. As I stepped out of the car, he warned me and said he would let the car door open. I approached slowly and carefully, paying close attention to any potential signs of an attack. Polar bears are surprisingly fast, and they won’t give you much time to react. You also have to consider that you can’t be fast while in deep snow and carrying heavy camera gear! I stopped about thirty meters away and composed my image. As I peered through the viewfinder, the bear directly locked eyes with me… and let out a growl. Looking back, I realize this was likely just a warning, a “don’t come any closer” gesture, but at that moment, fear gripped me. It was the kind of fear that makes you realize there’s little you can do if something goes wrong. Instinctively, I snapped the photo and slowly backed away, avoiding eye contact. Contrary to sharks, which I’m more accustomed to, maintaining eye contact with bears will be perceived as a challenge. The bear allowed me to leave. Back in the truck, I was trembling slightly, both from the shock of the encounter and the thrill of capturing my dream polar bear image. - “Did you get it?” my guide asked. - “I did.” Several weeks later, as I reflect on that moment, I came to realize that the driving force behind my actions was the combination of fear and fascination. The same reason that compels me to swim in sharks-infested waters or thirty-ton whales. These moments leave a mark on your soul, making you feel humble and more alive than ever.