Mikhail, a 500-something pound Amur (Siberian) tiger, stalks toward me from the back of his enclosure at the Oregon Zoo. Even with my camera in front of my face, I know he's staring right at me, and through the viewfinder, I can see the intensity in his eyes.
To this day, I believe this is one of the best big cat photographs I've taken. I blackened the background for a more dramatic affect.
On a side note, if you're wondering why this Siberian tiger is not white, you may want to check this out: [link]
I only allow use of my work for reference if you do NOT intend to use the finished product for monetary gain in any fashion. You cannot sell prints, or anything made from the work. I would also like to see the finished product when it's complete.