Wildlife Photography How To

Nat Geo Photographer Joel Sartore’s Quest to Make Portraits of Every Animal Species in Captivity

Ron Leach  |  Mar 15, 2017

Joel Sartore is an acclaimed National Geographic photographer with an ambitious quest like no other: His life-long goal is to document the plight of our planet's animals by making portraits of every species in captivity.

Sartore is a regular contributor to National Geographic and other prominent publications, and he has written several books. He specializes in documenting endangered species and environments across the globe, and he is the founder of Photo Ark, a 25-year project to protect both animals and habitats.

As Sartore implores, “It is folly to think that we can destroy one species and ecosystem after another and not affect humanity,” adding that, “When we save species we’re actually saving ourselves.”

Known for his sense of humor and midwestern work ethic, Sartore says he’s always happy to return from global travels to his home in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Sartore’s Photo Ark project is featured in the beautiful new coffee table book, “National Geographic The Photo Ark: One Man’s Quest to Document the World’s Animals” that is now available on Amazon. In addition to Sartore’s gorgeous images, the book includes a thought-provoking argument for animal conservation conveyed with Sartore’s wit, wisdom, and compassion.

You can read and see more of Sartore’s remarkable journey on his website and Instagram page, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @ShutterbugPix where we’re sharing our favorite photos from our followers.

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