23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Hierarchy

Deer symbolize protection and blessings in Nara, Japan. In the short moment I was closer to the ground than it, I realized our positions. Hovering over me, the deer was synonymous with the sunlight, trees, and the stone lanterns; I had felt comfort.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Nara, Japan
Copyright: © Jorge Silva