The Svalbard Archipelago is one of earth�s northernmost inhabited areas. Its rugged terrain of glaciers and frozen tundra shelters polar bears, Svalbard reindeer and Arctic foxes. I was on a small ship photographic expedition in early Spring. The sun never sets at that time of year, but the days are still cold, typically between -10 to -20C.� Polar bears are not always easy to find in Spring and we spent long days searching. We had some wildlife encounters, but I didn't feel I had �the shot� and, on our last day, we were hoping for a better sighting. �Right on cue, this majestic bear came right down to the ice edge and we were able to get up close to him in the zodiacs. His eyes were always on us and at times he charged towards us. Our skilful skipper had to ensure we were not close enough for the polar bear to launch into our boat. This image captures an eye-to-eye encounter I will never forget.