Polar Bear
Michelle Valberg Photography \\ POLAR BEAR SERIES
"In 2012, I visited polar bear cabins near Arviat, Nunavut with friend @leanne.cusack. Upon arrival, this curious (and likely hungry) polar bear approached us. First smelling some equipment, then he smelled us and walked in our direction. Before I knew it, I was behind my guide and my guide was only 30 feet from the bear. I couldn't move so I took pictures (figuring it would either be my last or part of a good story).Fortunately our guide Jason was in full protection mode. You never want any harm to come to you (obviously) but also the bear. He spoke Inuktitut to the bear encouraging him to not come any closer while showing his gun. Eventually Jason had to fire a ground shot when the bear was about to charge. All worked out ok... the bear eventually left without any harm. Definitely the scariest moment I have had in the Arctic. Thankful to Jason for his protection. All these are full frame and taken with D3X with 500mm (except the last one)."
Michelle Valberg Photography \\ POLAR BEAR SERIES
"In 2012, I visited polar bear cabins near Arviat, Nunavut with friend @leanne.cusack. Upon arrival, this curious (and likely hungry) polar bear approached us. First smelling some equipment, then he smelled us and walked in our direction. Before I knew it, I was behind my guide and my guide was only 30 feet from the bear. I couldn't move so I took pictures (figuring it would either be my last or part of a good story).Fortunately our guide Jason was in full protection mode. You never want any harm to come to you (obviously) but also the bear. He spoke Inuktitut to the bear encouraging him to not come any closer while showing his gun. Eventually Jason had to fire a ground shot when the bear was about to charge. All worked out ok... the bear eventually left without any harm. Definitely the scariest moment I have had in the Arctic. Thankful to Jason for his protection. All these are full frame and taken with D3X with 500mm (except the last one)."