The candy store for photographers that the Galapagos Islands represent is almost limitless. During my second trip there I found the sea lions on Genovesa Island very approachable and extremely photogenic.
This mother and daughter completely ignored the 5-6 surrounding photographers and continue their nap on the beach. We were able to be within 6 feet of them with they experiencing no fear nor alarm. In fact, while photographing these two, I had another pup sniffing at my shoe. I had to be careful not to step on it. Such is the wonderful photography experience on the islands. I liked the bonding, the sense of peacefulness, and the simple composition of the image.
Captured with Canon 7D with Tamron 16-300mm set at 267mm, f/10, and 1/500 sec handheld. There was literally no post-processing other than slight noise reduction and slight sharpening.
This round’s discussion is now closed! 8 comments posted
Raj Panandiker
Very nice image. sharp; nice story as well. I wonder if this image could have looked even better if it was shot at a lower angle and with more room on the right? Posted: 09/10/2024 17:10:24
Jim Bodkin
Thanks, Raj. A lower angle would have been better.
Posted: 09/28/2024 16:40:50
Graham Harris
I really like the tight crop you have used - filling the frame with the two subjects. You have really removed any background distractions with the framing you have used. A good nature story of these two sea lions resting without fear. Posted: 09/10/2024 18:30:00
Jim Bodkin
Thanks, Graham. I tried to simplify the image, but maybe a lower angle could have improved it (or maybe not). Just another lesson to try.
Posted: 09/28/2024 16:43:25
Lillian Roberts
Jim, I envy your trip to the Galapagos! I went many years ago - as I recall it was the first trip where I didn't use film at all, so that's how long ago it was. I hope to go back.
I love the simple intimacy of this image. The clean BG of the sand eliminates all distraction and the viewer can't help but smile a little looking at this pair. Normally you want eyes open for most subjects, but in this case the closed eyes tell the story.
The angle works for me as it emphasizes the nice curves of their shoulders leading to the faces, but a lower angle would have given us an even more intimate connection with the subject. That would have been a different successful image, not necessarily a better one IMHO.
Lillian Posted: 09/12/2024 08:50:14
Jim Bodkin
Thanks, Lillian. My first trip was through OAT and mainly casual photographers (probably now, all with cell phones) and we were rushed to their schedule. The second trip was all nature photographers, lead by a nature photographer and we dictated the meal times, the first landing time, and the off the beach time; so, much more photographer friendly!
Thanks for all of your good suggestions. I will try the lower angle in the future (to the extent that I can get down that low AND get back up!).
Posted: 09/28/2024 16:51:44
Pinaki Sarkar
Nice photo. What appeals me to me here is the tight crop which emphasizes the cuddling nap that these two creatures are taking. POV is little higher but even if you had taken it a lower angle I am not sure how effective the emotions that you wanted to convey would have come through. Maybe experiment and see. Color tones and nice and soothing. Excellent photo. Posted: 09/29/2024 09:28:06
