452: Dara Ojo - The Extraordinary World of Insect Macro Photography

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with macro photographer Dara Ojo to explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of insects and arthropods. Dara Ojo shares how macro photography transformed his perception of these tiny creatures, inspiring empathy and respect for their crucial ecological roles. The conversation delves into his creative journey, the technical challenges and joys of capturing live insects up close, and the importance of ethical practices—steering clear of shortcuts like photographing dead specimens. They also discuss how macro photography can reshape public attitudes, support conservation efforts, and provide personal healing and connection to nature. With stories of surprising field discoveries, cultural perspectives, and the power of persistence, Dara Ojo highlights how small wonders can ignite big inspiration and why these subjects deserve greater appreciation in both art and science.

Links and Resources:

1. Dara Ojo's Website
2. Cygnustech Diffusers
3. Godox Flashes
4. Helicon Focus
5. PBS Bugs That Rule the World
6. Support the podcast on Patreon