Photographing 20,000 Species

For the last 20 years, National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore has been capturing portraits of animal species to foster appreciation and conservation. His goal is to photograph all of the 20,000 animals living in the world’s zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries. He recently marked a milestone by photographing birds-of-paradise as the 17,000th species in the project, highlighting their extravagant plumage and mesmerizing courtship dances. None of the species featured in the series are currently critically endangered— suggesting that conservation efforts have made headway, and that raising awareness through such captivating images can make a real difference. Sartore’s intention is to strip away distractions with simple backgrounds, to show animals looking directly into the lens, and to remind viewers that there is so much life on this planet worth saving. His work resonates deeply— offering hope, wonder, and a compelling call to protect the diversity of life.

Image via National Geographic

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