Wildlife Photo Competition 2 2012 : Entry Number 295

Although I am not usually a fan of flash wildlife photography I really love this shot. What better contrast than the dark of night to bring out the details of this handsome looking raccoon? The reflection makes the composition special and the raccoon’s intriguing, curious expression make it so real. This is a firm favourite.

I took this shot while on the Images for Conservation Pro Tour in 2006. I set it up with an infra-red trigger and two flashes. The photo was taken at 2:00 am. When the first flash fired, the raccoon curiously looked up; this is the second shot. John Hendrickson