Up close with a Jaguar at the Cat Sanctuary in Welwyn Garden City
Up close with a Jaguar at the Cat Sanctuary in Welwyn Garden City
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at the Cat Survival Trust in Welwyn Garden City. A trust set up to preserve endangered cat species. Run completely by volunteers and donations it is an incredible place. You can purchase an annual membership which helps the trust continue its great work.Time
This was taken around 2-3pm. I had been photographing this Jaguar for about an hour, the light kept catching the bars and leaving shadows so lots of patience was needed.Lighting
the light kept catching the bars and leaving shadows so lots of patience was needed. I didn't want it to be obvious to the viewer that this shot was taken in captivity, certainly not with any bars showing.Equipment
I have a Canon 70D and used a 50mm lens, I was up close and needed to have eyes in the back of my head as she could get her claws through the bars! No tripod, no flash.Inspiration
I was on a course, as a self taught photographer I do try and get on a course every few months - especially given I only got off auto about 6 months prior to taking this. I love wildlife and chose this course, I was actually devastated when I left as although I understand the need for conservation of the endangered species this space this jaguar and other large cats had just isn't enough. I wanted to take photo's that could inspire others to visit the Sanctuary and provide much needed funds to build larger enclosures.Editing
Other than dehazing this image has had no post processing. I actually don't enjoy the post processing and therefore try and take my shots to be as close to the final image that I would like to view. Although I am sure a lot more can be done with this photo in an editing suite.In my camera bag
I love my 24-70mm ultrasonic and wouldn't want to be without it when up close and personal, f/2.8 this is a beautiful addition to my lens collection. I have a 50mm prime and a macro lens. When out in natural surroundings in taking wildlife I also have a 70-200mm f/2.8 IS II ISM which delivers incredible quality however, it is heavy and when travelling I need an extra shoulder available to carry this one around. So I only pack it when I know I might need it. And of course, lego, blutack, paper clips - you just never know what you might need ;-)Feedback
A subject matter that cannot be controlled, patience essential and a Dr Dolittle discussion with the jaguar was what I think gave me this reaction that I was able to capture. Trying to find something that was different in an expression, one that needs a caption 'you're next' comes to mind with this photograph.