Two brother Grizzly cubs appear to roll around in uncontrollable fits of laughter. In a moment of perfect timing, I snapped this endearing moment one summer's day on the meadows of Whitehorn Mountain. The cubs are the young of Grizzly Bear 161 - who appeared to ignore her rambunctious offspring's behavior whilst she concentrated on nibbling dandelions.
"Brother Bear" – A Milestone in Wildlife Photography
At the start of every year, I jot down a list of goals I’d like to achieve, and number six for this year was: “Shortlist or place in a competition.”
In the world of wildlife photography, where competition is fierce, being shortlisted in a prestigious contest is an achievement in itself. With thousands of entrants and the bar for quality rising each year—thanks to advancements in professional gear and trends popularized on social media—it’s no small feat to stand out.
My first experience with being shortlisted was in 2019 when I entered the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Out of 48,000 entrants, my image made the cut. However, I ultimately withdrew my submission after realizing a background element was more “adjusted” than I was comfortable with. Transparency and integrity meant more to me than a title, especially early in my career.
Ironically, after reverting the image to its original, natural state and sharing it again, it became my most successful photo on social media, reaching thousands of people. This taught me a valuable lesson: peeling away trends and focusing on authenticity resonates more deeply with viewers.
The Journey of "Brother Bear"
Despite its lack of initial recognition in competitions, one image has always been closest to my heart: "Brother Bear."
This photo encapsulates everything I love about the wild—a moment of pure connection, warmth, and the carefree bond between two grizzly bears. Yet it also stirs a bittersweet feeling, reminding us of the uncertain future grizzlies face in the Canadian Rockies. Their habitat is increasingly encroached upon, their existence threatened by human activity.
When I submitted “Brother Bear” to Canadian Geographic’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, I didn’t expect much. To my amazement, I received an email this week announcing that it had been shortlisted as a finalist. Out of thousands of entries from some of the biggest names in wildlife photography—many of whom are my personal idols—this image rose to the top.
Why "Brother Bear" Matters
For me, “Brother Bear” represents a glimpse of the wild as it should be—untouched, free from the pressures of human intrusion. It’s a reminder of the importance of preserving these moments for future generations. Grizzlies, like the ones captured in this image, are a symbol of the Rockies and their fragile ecosystem.
I’m overjoyed to share that “Brother Bear” has now been published in Canadian Geographic Volume 141/6, November/December Issue. Seeing this image in print is a full-circle moment and an affirmation of the power of authenticity in wildlife storytelling.
You can view the issue here.