For me, it is extremely rare to connect with nature up close and personal. This close encounter with a baby monkey at the Jigokudani Monkey Park near Nagano, Japan was especially unique. These are the only monkeys in the world that bathe in volcanic hot springs - and apparently, it's so relaxing that they have no problems posing for photos. This particular photo was taken in April 2012 and represented a striking moment of eye contact between the young monkey and the camera. I was so caught up in the experience, I hadn't realized that I'd captured this until much later. I take a lot of photos but d not consider myself a professional; however this is definitely one of my favourite shots!