My Interview with a Bear

Over a decade ago, I moved to Alaska and became friends with a bear. She growled a lot and ate with the loudest baby bear noises. And she was my baby. Now she's ten and comes to all of my photography jobs, since she is saving for a cell phone. Her nickname is Bear.

Valdez Alaska Photography with Bear

Today she wanted to be featured on my blog. Since she's the expert photography assistant, I trust her judgement. You all better pay attention to her, because she has the wisdom of Grandmother Willow with the silliness of the racoon from Pocahontas.

Hello Bear. I want to start off by asking you the hardest question: What's the best place to get your photos in Valdez?

"The best place right about now would be Dock Point because the fireweed hasn't come up all the way yet in Old Town. But when the fireweed comes up, that the place I would go... Old Town."

What do you do when you come to help with photo session in Alaska for Alaska photography?

"For the most part I just hold the reflector. I hold coats, help with the younger kids, and help prep."

What was the funniest thing that has happened during one of our photography sessions in Valdez, Alaska?

"I know what it is... it was when I was about 7 or 8-years-old and I was holding the reflector. I was talking to a senior getting her photos done. I said 'I do the hard part. My mom just clicks the button on the camera.' "

You're right. That was hilarious. (The senior we were photographing enjoyed that one, too.)

Why do you think it's important that I bring an assistant to our photo sessions?

"I don't know exactly...I know it helps the lighting a bit."

Well just so you know, being able to use you directly makes my images better. When it's a sunny day, I can keep the image quality higher by using light to reflect the shadows and keep the landscape quality in the image, as well as the subject. So, you make a big difference when you come!

What was the cutest dog we've ever photographed?

"My favorite dog you've photographed is Aurora the pomski. She's very photogenic for a dog."

I think she's photogenic even compared to humans. That dog is gorgeous!

Do you have a favorite pose to help with at photo sessions?

"No not really. But I really like when people sit on fences. It makes a really good photo."

What is your favorite thing about going to sessions?

"I think it's when I'm not just sitting there and I have a job to do. I just like working. It's my favorite part. But also on the other hand, my least favorite subject in school is recess.... so....."

What??? What kid doesn't like recess, little Bear???

"This kid!!"

Serious Bear in Alaska Valdez Photography Alaska Photography

Why???

"Because there are so few girls in my grade. And if you get bored of hanging out with one girl, all the other girls are in this gang. And if you play sports then get ready to get "you can't play this sport, you're a girl!' "

You know you can play sports even if you're a girl, right?

"Yep!"

I assumed you like being paid the most with photography.

"Yeah... I forgot about that part! I think my pay is pretty reasonable."

I'm glad to hear it!!! Haha.

Thanks for coming to this interview. Now go do your chores Little Bear.

"Nah..... hahhaha"

Just so you know I take your opinion in the highest form. You are great at art, and have a good eye. When I need someone's view on my editing, I trust your style. I am so lucky to have the best assistant in the whole world!!! And one that is so in touch with the bear in town... since as a kid you were the queen of the bears in your view.

Now, really go do your chores...

If you want me t