Water Colors

As wildlife photographers, we chase more than just images—we seek stories written in wild moments. Sometimes, that pursuit leads us into places that test both comfort and courage. To capture this photograph of an Alaskan brown bear sow framed by brilliant fall colors, I waded into icy water, just a few dozen feet from her. The cold bit at me, and the closeness of such a powerful animal was enough to make my pulse race. Yet, in that fleeting moment, there was no fear—only a quiet connection, a calm understanding between us as I pressed the shutter and preserved this memory in time.