I like this shot. You've captured an expression quite well- it conjures an image of a middle aged Scottish gent relaxing by a fire, having a drink. I think you can strengthen this presentation by burning/vignetting the logs and increasing the contrast of the groundhog's fur. Really play up that expression. Well done.John
It is portrait that mom and dad will love! Nice shot. I like the way the timber above to the right is muted and slightly blurred allowing its lines to accentuate the framing effect without intruding on your subject. Perhaps the timber would be better if darkened a little.
Whenever I go to the zoo, I get as many photos of wild animals as I do of the captive kind. This baby groundhog was one of several in a group being watched by a parent. Panasonic G1, 45-200 at max. zoom, ISO 100.