Photographing Black Bears in the Smoky Mountains

My First Encounter with a Smoky Mountain Black Bear

Living near the Smoky Mountains, it’s hard not to feel a connection to the iconic black bear. For many, including myself, these animals represent more than just wildlife—they symbolize the heart and soul of the Smokies. When I first moved to the area, capturing the essence of these creatures quickly became one of my photography goals. There’s a certain fascination that comes with observing black bears: they look cute and cuddly, but their unpredictability and sheer power remind you that they’re wild animals deserving of respect and space.

On one of my recent trips to Cades Cove, I had a moment that I’ll never forget. I spotted a black bear in the distance, quietly moving about its day, and as I focused my camera, something unexpected happened—our eyes met. That simple exchange, frozen in time by my camera, felt like a connection between two worlds—one of wildness and one of observation. After that, we each went our separate ways, but that brief encounter left me in awe of these incredible creatures.

As exciting as these moments are, it’s important to remember that black bears are not to be taken lightly. They’re survivors, waking up each day focused on finding food, roaming the mountains, and staying safe. For those of us lucky enough to witness them, it’s crucial to stay bear-aware.

My Approach to Photographing Black Bears

Before my trip to the Smoky Mountains, I honestly did not know what to expect. I had high hopes and a clear goal: to capture some stunning photos of black bears. However, wildlife photography is inherently unpredictable, and sometimes, despite your best efforts, you come back empty-handed. On my first attempt, I didn’t spot any black bears. While that was a bit disappointing, it reinforced the idea that the rarity of seeing these animals is part of what makes encountering them so special.

Understanding black bear behavior was a significant part of my prep. Knowing how black bears behave helps with tracking them and ensures you interact safely if you encounter one. Black bears have specific feeding patterns and behaviors that vary with the seasons. By understanding these details, I was able to observe them without disrupting their natural routine, making sure my presence was respectful and minimally invasive.

For anyone interested in learning more about black bear behavior, I highly recommend checking out the BearWise website. It’s a fantastic resource supported by the National Park Service, diving deep into bear habits throughout the year. You’ll find valuable tips on spotting and understanding bears, along with guidance on how we can all contribute to their protection.

Using the proper photography equipment is key to photographing black bears. Keeping your distance is the most important factor. For my camera, I used my Sony A7C, which contains a full-frame sensor. The full-frame sensor really helped me in that it allowed me to capture more detail in my images, which later allowed me to crop in on the bears during the post-editing process. For this trip, I also used my Sony 70-200mm G II lens, which allowed me to capture photos of the black bears from a safe distance. But even at 200mm, photographing the bears was still a challenge. It would be most ideal to use a lens that gives you as much zoom as possible; however, these lenses can be very expensive. A lens extender is also an option worth considering, though I have not tried one yet.

Choosing the right location makes all the difference between a fruitful shoot and coming back empty-handed. For me, Cades Cove was the clear choice, given its reputation for frequent black bear sightings. This area offers a variety of food sources for the bears, making it an ideal spot during their feeding periods. Researching and selecting a location based on the bear’s habitat and food availability significantly boosts your chances of success.

Staying Safe Around Black Bears: What I’ve Learned

As thrilling as my bear encounters have been, ensuring safety—both mine and the bears’—is a crucial part of the experience. Here’s what I’ve learned from my time in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Keeping a Respectful Distance: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to always maintain a safe distance. Even with a zoom lens, it can be tempting to get closer for that perfect shot. However, respecting the 50-yard (150 ft) distance is not only essential—it’s the law! You can be fined or even arrested for breaking this rule.
   
2. Carrying Essential Bear Safety Gear: On my trips, I’ve always made sure to have bear spray and a bear bell with me. While I haven’t had to use bear spray, it’s reassuring to have it on hand. The bear bell helps make my presence known from a distance, which reduces the chance of surprising a bear.
   
3. Proper Food and Trash Management: This eerie quote has always stuck with me: “Remember, a fed bear is a dead bear!” It’s a stark reminder of how important it is to secure all food and trash properly. I always use bear-proof containers and make sure everything is stored safely in my car or campsite. If you are careless with your food or litter, YOU may be responsible for a bear’s death!
   
4. Handling a Persistent Bear: If a bear starts following or approaching you, the National Park Service (NPS)recommends staying calm and taking action. First, try changing your direction. If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground. As it gets closer, raise your voice—yell or shout—and make yourself appear as big as possible, especially if you’re with others. Throw non-food items like rocks to scare it off. If you have bear spray, be ready to use it when the bear is about 20 yards away. Whatever you do, don’t run, don’t turn your back, and don’t leave food behind.

Wrapping Up: Reflections on My Bear Photography Journey

Reflecting on my adventures in the Smoky Mountains, I realize how much there is to learn about both wildlife and photography. My initial encounters with black bears were a mix of excitement and challenge, but each experience has been a step towards understanding these magnificent animals better.

From the awe of making eye contact with a bear to the lessons learned about respecting their space and behavior, my journey has been as educational as it has been exhilarating. The Smoky Mountains have offered me not just incredible photo opportunities but also a deeper appreciation for the wild.

As I continue my photography, I’m reminded that the essence of wildlife photography lies in capturing moments of genuine interaction while ensuring the well-being of the animals we seek to document. For anyone venturing into bear country, I hope these insights help you have safe and memorable experiences.

Here’s to many more adventures in the wild, where every encounter with a black bear is a reminder of the beauty and raw power of nature. May your photography journey be filled with as much wonder and respect as mine has been. 🐾🐻