Just the thought of being in close proximity to some of the largest carnivores on earth can be unnerving. I have photographed bears in many locations including Yosemite, Yellowstone, The Smoky Mountains, Denali, Anan Creek, Pack Creek and others. In most of those locations I am acutely aware of the predatory nature of the animals. In Denali, I swear you can see the bears plotting how they are going to eat you as they stare at you. But there is one place where I can go and photograph bears and those fears dissipate quickly.
I have led photo tours to Lake Clark National Park in Alaska for over 10 years. Every year brings something different. I never get tired of going back. It is a most unique area where you can be very close to the bears and still feel safe. It is a feeling you can’t describe, but I love watching my clients as they adapt to the presence of the bears. The looks of concern slowly evaporate away and are replaced by joy and awe. I have seen many types of behaviors over the years and I hope you enjoy seeing some here. Click here to view the images.
All images are available as limited edition fine prints, numbered and signed. Images can be printed on a variety of substrates including paper, canvas or metal at a variety of sizes. Please email lewis@lewiskemper.com if you are interested in obtaining a print.

watching mom fish

looking for fish

mom and triplets

learning to clam #1

cubs sparing #1

"Dancing" cubs #1

standing cub #1

bear family in fog

cubs sparing #2

in evening light #1

adolescents sparing #1

adolescents sparing #2

nursing #1

nursing #2

nursing #3

nursing #4

in evening light #2

portrait #1

mom and cubs in water

gazing at the sea

cubs snuggling #1
cub #1

cubs sparing #3

cubs sparing #4

cubs sparing #5

adolescents sparing #3

mom and cub with flounder

in fireweed

and Slope Mountain

and spiny dogfish

Shelter Creek #1

with salmon #1

looking for fish #2

with salmon #2

looking for fish #3

eating clams #1

morning light #1

portrait #2

portrait #3

and cub #1

in morning light #2

siblings #1

siblings #2

riding mom's back #1

riding mom's back #2

riding mom's back #3

cubs in meadow

cub in meadow

sow and cubs #1

portrait #4

cub playing with skull

cubs #2

learning to clam #2

cub #2

cub #3

adolescents sparing #4

in morning light #3

in morning light #4

sow and cub #1
