Well, I've had several bear encounters but not by choice. I used to run into them regular in the mountains as a youth. But, I'm the first to admit that I do not know enough and am not comfortable being around them. Especially if I'm in a National Park, on foot, and without a firearm. In Montana I always carry bear spray but I hope I never find out if I can really get it out and in use in time.

These were from Glacier last summer in the evening. I spotted the bear foraging by the side of the road and stopped to get a few shots. And yes, it did cause the usual "bear jam" with all these idiots out of the cars and walking up on the bear with their little point and shoots. Shot from the car using a 300mm f/4 and 1.4x t-con and a better beamer flash extender.