"Photography is a critically important tool"

"Photography is a critically important tool to help people understand what is at stake here." Cristina Mittermeier; Executive Director, International League of Conservation Photographers.

I know that feeling Mittermeier describes at the beginning of this video. So much of the magic of wildlife photography lies not only in the output image, but in the wild encounter. The roster of shooters on the Irreplaceable Wild website features many well-known pros, all of whom have surely felt that rush of emotion and energy upon first up-close glimpse of some rare creature.

Is it possible to not be moved by such powerful, evocative imagery? Can you imagine living in a world without so many of these magnificent creatures? Is it possible to be a wildlife photographer of any stripe, and not feel a sense of urgency in helping to preserve the wilds?

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