Wildlife photography shows African elephants and snow leopards, appearances in the natural world that are becoming rarer. Today, the Earth faces a biodiversity crisis, with thousands of species on the brink of extinction.
Wildlife photography has turned into a vital tool for raising awareness, documenting endangered species, and igniting a call to action. Now, let’s explore the role of wildlife photography and the stories of influential wildlife photographers who have driven conservation efforts. The clock is ticking, and through wildlife photographers’ lenses, we appreciate animals while holding our breath because of their finitude.
The Current State of Wildlife
There have been numerous articles and organizations that are actively clamoring to address the increasing loss of biodiversity. Despite awareness efforts, the Amur Leopard and the Black Rhino are still critically endangered because of climate change and habitat loss.
Human activities polluting natural habitats or ecosystems are causing about 90% of species to be at risk of extinction. At this trajectory, estimates suggest that by mid-century, up to 30 to 50% of all species could go extinct.
Global warming and climate change also poses a great threat to wildlife. The melting of ice sheets in the Arctic hindering how polar bears hunt is one example of this. Additionally, islands submerging as a result of the rising sea levels means that more species are losing their habitats.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List shows there are more than 42,000 species at risk of extinction. Some recently extinct animal species include the Pinta Giant Tortoise in 2012, the Splendid Poison Frog in 2020, and the Western Black Rhino in 2011. These are only three out of the long list of recently extinct animals. This is an eye-opener to the alarming state of our wildlife.
How many more will be added to this list in the next decade or in the next two decades? There is an urgent call to prioritize the loss of our wildlife. Thankfully, there are many ways that we can contribute to change. One such way is to encourage people to capture wildlife photography in an ethical and informative way more.
The Role of Wildlife Photography
Photos do more than just capture a moment. Photographers often use their photos to convey a statement or an emotion. Their impactful works raise awareness of important issues, encouraging individuals to act. This approach is crucial in addressing the ongoing biodiversity crisis.
Photographers in wildlife photography go to extreme lengths to capture photos in a way that highlights the situation’s urgency.
Powerful Storytelling in Popular Wildlife Photographs
Nick Brandt
The work of Nick Brandt, Inherit the Dust, is one example of this. His chronicling of the inhumane conditions of animals due to human development urged people to stand up for animal welfare. He showed how the drastic situation of the wildlife existed parallel to the humans who were living in these landscapes. Through his work, he was able to depict the importance of preserving wildlife for future generations.
David Doubilet
David Doubilet and his underwater photography was also monumental in raising awareness on the dire straits of marine wildlife. In his words, “pictures have the power to celebrate, educate, honor, humiliate, and illuminate”. Photography has the capability to create long lasting impact. The image David took of divers swimming with stingrays became motivation for divers to take to the Cayman Islands. His work of capturing over-under icebergs highlighted sea-level rise and global warming, which raises awareness of its urgency to viewers. This is proof that images are enough to start conversations about important topics which then serve as catalysts for positive change.
Cristina Mittermeier
Cristina Mittermeier, co-founder of SeaLegacy, uses her breathtaking underwater photography to highlight the struggles that marine life face. She captured a powerful image of an emaciated polar bear searching for food. It became a viral symbol of the impacts of climate change, igniting a wave of activism and support for climate action. If you want to know more about her, Cristina’s journey is both inspiring and educational. She shares her experiences and techniques in an episode of National Geographic’s series, “Photographer,” available on Disney+.
Wildlife photography remains crucial in scientific research and documentation. As the threat of extinction for these species looms nearer on the daily, researchers rely on these photos for awareness and to innovate better ways for preservation. And as we continue to urbanize rainforests and other habitats, these photos may be all we have left before we permanently say goodbye to our wildlife.
Push for Change with Wildlife Photography
In the heart of every wildlife photograph lies a powerful story waiting to be told. As photographers, you hold the ability to capture these fleeting moments and ignite change. Your lens can reveal the beauty and fragility of our world, urging others to care and act.
So, venture into the wild, be passionate, and let your images speak for the voiceless. Remember, every click of your camera is a step towards preserving the wonders of our planet.
