ENTRY DESCRIPTION
Jigokudani is a place in Nagano, Japan. This is where Snow Monkeys roam free and yet enjoy the luxury of their own onsen (A natural hot spring over 25℃ that contains a certain level of minerals).

During the harsh winter months, females, their children, and their babies bathe in the onsen to keep warm. They don't sweat so they stay warm all day. Male Snow Monkeys are too manly to bathe and usually leave the family and go to another group to start another family. So, the bond between mother and child is very strong and lasts for a very long time. Even when the babies grow too big to nestle up to, they will climb on the mother's back and be close that way.

This image shows the beautiful connection between mother and child. I also wanted to show the shadows, mid-tones, highlights, and texture of their fur with snow falling on it. The babies always have darker fur and I really love the way the tones work so well together.

AUTHOR
My name is David Williams. I am originally from the UK and have now been living in Tokyo, Japan for 14 years. I am a professional photographer doing sports, animal, and haikyo (abandoned ruins) photography. I am working freelance under the name of Davidwphotogaphy.

I am most proud of winning the Canon Gallery photo contest here in Japan and having the opportunity to guest lecture at a prestigious art and design university in Tokyo.

My future goals are to be in 1st place in an international photo contest, being published in National Geographic magazine, and working for a sports magazine/organization as a photographer.

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