Fight or Flight, April 24, 2023

The momma cow was confused as I knelt on one knee with my camera, and it didn't take long for her confusion to turn into disapproval of the Momma & Me photo session. She expressed her discontent by backing up and swinging her head to alert me that the session was over before it began.

I respected her wishes and backed away. It was apparent the internal instinct of motherhood far outweighed my desire to capture a photograph.

Later that day, as I reviewed my photos, I was pleased to have at least one picture of the moment, but after a few minutes, I realized I was looking at more than just a momma cow's internal instincts.

The photo was a snapshot of the final moments of life; confusion, fear, and vulnerability—the vital seconds needed to determine fight or flight.

Written by Shana Marie

Photographed on April 23, 2023, by Shana Marie

Location: Weston, Wyoming

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