| Katmai National Park in Alaska is a haven for | | | | carry, but they are a must, especially with longer |
| Brown Bears, and an easy and exciting destination | | | | lenses. |
| for wildlife photographers. While there are more | | | | 3. Wide angle lenses: Hallo Bay is also very scenic |
| popular places, Hallo Bay, on the southern coast, is | | | | place. |
| where the real pros go to shoot. | | | | 4. Macro Lens: There are lots of flowers to shoot, |
| Brooks Lodge, in Katmai, is a great place to get | | | | which can add to the 'story' of the place. |
| the shot of a bear on the waterfall with the | | | | 5. Waterproof case for your camera gear. |
| salmon jumping into his mouth. There is even a | | | | 6. Lots of memory cards. The boat has power |
| platform set up to facilitate this. It's a wonderful | | | | for your laptop or storage device, but when you |
| shot, but everyone who visits, returns with the | | | | are ashore, it's not a quick thing to get back to |
| same image. Brooks Lodge is also a very busy | | | | the ship to swap cards. Bring plenty with you, so |
| place in the summer, which can affect your ability | | | | you don't miss a shot. |
| to shoot. | | | | 7. Extra batteries. The moment your batteries |
| A more productive area is Hallo Bay on the | | | | die, is when all of the best action happens, so be |
| southern coast of Katmai. It's a large bay where | | | | prepared. |
| Brown Bears graze on sedges, chase salmon and | | | | It's possible to visit by float plane for an |
| even dig for clams. It is a prolific place and on any | | | | afternoon or full day, but spending a few days on |
| given day, you can look around and see 15 - 35 | | | | a boat will give you more time to shoot, and the |
| bears. By positioning well and waiting for the bears | | | | flexibility to follow if the bears move to another |
| to come to you, it's possible to get incredible close | | | | bay. Boats also have electricity so you can |
| up images of Brown Bears. Plus, the images you | | | | download your images and re-charge your |
| take will be both unique and natural. Weather can | | | | batteries. There are two boats that service the |
| sometimes turn sour, so giving yourself a few | | | | area: The Waters, run by John Waters and |
| days, will help ensure you return home with | | | | another boat run by Chuck Keim, Katmai Coastal |
| fantastic bear images. | | | | Explorer, Both have worked in the area for many |
| Equipment ideas: | | | | years and have experienced crews and guides. |
| 1. Telephoto Lens: Bring your big lenses. These will | | | | If you are serious about Brown Bear |
| help you get that full frame face shot. | | | | photography, Hallo Bay should be on your list. |
| 2. Tripod: Yes, they are awkward and heavy to | | | | |