Experience the Magic of Japan's Snow Monkey Jiyugaoka Park : A unique look at the northern most monkeys on planet earth. I have been now four times with camera in hand, and each time there are surprises and behaviors I had not previously witnessed. To be honest my first trip was me just feeling after a decade in Japan with camera in hand it was high time to get some shots of these primates. However I quickly found that the beauty was very real, beyond what most quirky photos online show. These are not circus animals meant to entertain people that "accidentally drop their phone". They are beautiful creatures that choose to live in a harsh but beautiful and rugged mountain habbitat. Being from the NW and working on a mountain multiple seasons, I feel a special connection. Through all their social complexity and fights, there are moments when it seems clear to me, that they are enjoying the same beautiful landscape that I am, in peaceful bliss. Join me as I recount a remarkable two days of photography in late January 2023, during an exceptionally cold week. The weather posed its challenges—many buses out of Tokyo were canceled due to heavy snow, and my own train became stuck on icy tracks just as the sun rose. While my dreams of being the first in the park were dashed, the silver lining was that I arrived at Japan's famous snow monkey park to find it surprisingly empty. A Rare Encounter with Nature With fewer visitors, the snow monkeys roamed freely, playfully chasing each other along the paths and across the narrow bridge just by my feet. One unforgettable moment occurred when a large male monkey leaped onto my lens for a brief encounter, leaving only a footprint behind—a reminder of this unique connection with nature. Capturing Unforgettable Moments These two days were incredibly rewarding, filled with opportunities to capture stunning images of the monkeys in their natural habitat. The serene atmosphere allowed for a deeper appreciation of the beauty around me, and I left with memories and photographs that truly encapsulated the essence of this extraordinary experience. Looking Ahead I’m already planning to return this coming winter for another adventure at the snow monkey park. Stay tuned for updates as I continue to explore and capture the magic of Japan's landscapes and wildlife. Explore my gallery to discover the beauty of these moments and join me on this incredible journey!
"Motherly Love: Serenity of a Mother Snow Monkey and Her Baby in a Deep Blue Onsen" Limited Edition of 100 Prints (Each Size Limited to 25)
Limited Edition Print "Mother and Baby Snow Monkey in the Onsen" Edition Size: 100 total prints, with each size limited to 1/25 editions, regardless of medium or format. Experience the exquisite bond between a mother snow monkey and her baby, captured in breathtaking medium format on a cold January morning just after a fresh snowfall. This powerful photograph immortalizes a rare moment of tenderness amidst the tranquil setting of a natural hot spring. The image highlights the intimate relationship between mother and child, creating an emotional atmosphere that invites viewers to connect with the nurturing beauty of nature. The vibrant blue reflections of the hot spring contrast with the slightly warm tones of the monkeys in the cool morning light, forming a visual harmony that evokes both serenity and strength. Printed in limited edition on archival-quality materials, each piece is carefully crafted to preserve the depth, clarity, and texture of the scene. The medium format photography, with a resolution of 100 MP, ensures that every detail, from the intricate textures of the monkeys' fur to the shimmering surface of the onsen water, is rendered with stunning clarity. This print is part of a total edition of 100, with each of the four available sizes limited to 25 prints. This edition applies across all mediums and mounting options, ensuring the exclusivity of the work regardless of format. For the 120 x 80 cm framed option, because this size is not available as a standard print, the image will be specially printed at 105 x 70 cm. However, this special format will still be counted as part of the 25 prints for the 120 x 80 cm size. Elevate your collection with this evocative limited edition print, honoring the delicate beauty of wildlife and the tender moments shared in the heart of nature. Available Sizes: 45 x 30 cm 60 x 40 cm 90 x 60 cm 120 x 80 cm (with special 105 x 70 cm framed print) Mounting Options: Framed: Featuring museum glass and a Tuscany profile 105mm frame (available in anthracite or tobacco). Acrylic Face-Mount: For a contemporary, high-gloss finish that enhances detail and color. Metal (Dibond/Aluminum): Offering a sleek, modern look with incredible durability and a matte finish. Canvas Wrap: A textured, elegant option for a more traditional presentation. Technical Specifications: Print Type: Giclée print Material Options: Hahnemühle FineArt Pearl, Fujifilm Crystal Archive DPII, or other archival-quality materials Resolution: 100 MP, ensuring extraordinary clarity and flexibility for large prints Edition: Limited to 100 total prints, with each size limited to 1/25 prints