HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

LANDSCAPES - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Landscapes. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio. JOEL SARTORE AT TEDXMIDWEST The Photo Ark . Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark WHAT KIND OF CAMERA SHOULD I BUY? The best camera is the one that you will use. That $2,000 DSLR will do you no good if it’s gathering dust on the shelf because it’s too heavy for you to carry comfortably. Try out a camera in person to make sure it feels good in your hands before you buy it. If you go with a DSLR, buy a less expensive body and dedicate more of your budget HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. DO YOU TAKE YOUR FAMILY ON ASSIGNMENT WITH YOU? Do you take your family on assignment with you? Most of the time, no. My wife and children have come with me in the past on short trips, but they don’t generally like to come along because I’m working from sunup to sundown (and often later) every day. I’m constantly making

phone calls and

HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

LANDSCAPES - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Landscapes. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio. JOEL SARTORE AT TEDXMIDWEST The Photo Ark . Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark WHAT KIND OF CAMERA SHOULD I BUY? The best camera is the one that you will use. That $2,000 DSLR will do you no good if it’s gathering dust on the shelf because it’s too heavy for you to carry comfortably. Try out a camera in person to make sure it feels good in your hands before you buy it. If you go with a DSLR, buy a less expensive body and dedicate more of your budget HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. DO YOU TAKE YOUR FAMILY ON ASSIGNMENT WITH YOU? Do you take your family on assignment with you? Most of the time, no. My wife and children have come with me in the past on short trips, but they don’t generally like to come along because I’m working from sunup to sundown (and often later) every day. I’m constantly making

phone calls and

ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTORE Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

THE PHOTO ARK

Galleries. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document species before they disappear—and to get people to care while there’s still time. Learn More Books Donate. 11,653 species in Photo Ark as of today. 25 years to document every species

in human care.

CUSTOM FINE ART PRINTS Custom Fine Art Prints. Archival Prints and Canvas Wraps, $75 and up by Joel Sartore. Nearly every photo on this website is available as an archival print. They’re gorgeous, flawless and look beautiful in an office or home. Our prints are made by professional printmakers, using archival materials and techniques.

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

VIDEO ARK - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Video Ark. Our hope is that people will look these creatures in the eyes, and be inspired to care, while there is still time. Don’t see a video that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to

find.

WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like THE PHOTO ARK: PRESERVING SPECIES BEFORE THEY DISAPPEAR The Photo Ark. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark. HOW DO I BECOME A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER? I’m asked this question more often than any other. The short reply is “by being very persistent.” And though concise, it’s definitely true. Here are the steps I took: I got into photography late in high school after borrowing an old Olympus camera from a friend’s father. I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and—after changing

WWW.JOELSARTORE.COM

www.joelsartore.com

HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTOREPHOTOS & VIDEOSNEWSSTOREGALLERYFAQCONTACT Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

THE PHOTO ARK

Galleries. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document species before they disappear—and to get people to care while there’s still time. Learn More Books Donate. 11,653 species in Photo Ark as of today. 25 years to document every species

in human care.

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio.

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

THE PHOTO ARK

See a photo you love? Buy a print of it. Or consider our beautiful signed 400-page Photo Ark book, having Joel speak at your business or group, and supporting your local zoo. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Image & Video Use Guidelines The images and videos on this site are the result of thousands of hours of work, and are primarily self-funded. Unfortunately, we can’t make these images & videos available for free. We are fortunate to work with many non-profits, conservation initiatives, individuals, media outlets, publications and businesses. All licensing fees go directly into WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTOREPHOTOS & VIDEOSNEWSSTOREGALLERYFAQCONTACT Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

THE PHOTO ARK

Galleries. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document species before they disappear—and to get people to care while there’s still time. Learn More Books Donate. 11,653 species in Photo Ark as of today. 25 years to document every species

in human care.

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio.

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

THE PHOTO ARK

See a photo you love? Buy a print of it. Or consider our beautiful signed 400-page Photo Ark book, having Joel speak at your business or group, and supporting your local zoo. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Image & Video Use Guidelines The images and videos on this site are the result of thousands of hours of work, and are primarily self-funded. Unfortunately, we can’t make these images & videos available for free. We are fortunate to work with many non-profits, conservation initiatives, individuals, media outlets, publications and businesses. All licensing fees go directly into WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. PRODUCTS - HELP US BUILD THE ARK - JOEL SARTORE The Photo Ark Vanishing Book (Signed Copy) Hardcover, 400 pages, 375 photographs. $40.00. CUSTOM FINE ART PRINTS Custom Fine Art Prints. Archival Prints and Canvas Wraps, $75 and up by Joel Sartore. Nearly every photo on this website is available as an archival print. They’re gorgeous, flawless and look beautiful in an office or home. Our prints are made by professional printmakers, using archival materials and techniques. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

VIDEO ARK - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Video Ark. Our hope is that people will look these creatures in the eyes, and be inspired to care, while there is still time. Don’t see a video that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to

find.

FUNDAMENTALS OF PHOTOGRAPHY With Fundamentals of Photography, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the art and craft of great photography. Designed for people at all levels, these 24 lectures are an engaging guide to how photographs work and how to make them work better for you. Joel Sartore has crafted a WHAT KIND OF CAMERA SHOULD I BUY? The best camera is the one that you will use. That $2,000 DSLR will do you no good if it’s gathering dust on the shelf because it’s too heavy for you to carry comfortably. Try out a camera in person to make sure it feels good in your hands before you buy it. If you go with a DSLR, buy a less expensive body and dedicate more of your budget WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like THE PHOTO ARK: PRESERVING SPECIES BEFORE THEY DISAPPEAR The Photo Ark. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark.

ANI082-00026

A western diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) in the foothills of the Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma. Studies are showing that rattlesnakes that have the genetic tendency to migrate are being killed in ever-increasing numbers on our nation's roads, leaving those snakes with non-migrating tendencies behind to breed. HOW DO I BECOME A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER? I’m asked this question more often than any other. The short reply is “by being very persistent.” And though concise, it’s definitely true. Here are the steps I took: I got into photography late in high school after borrowing an old Olympus camera from a friend’s father. I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and—after changing HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTOREPHOTOS & VIDEOSNEWSSTOREGALLERYFAQCONTACT Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

THE PHOTO ARK

Galleries. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document species before they disappear—and to get people to care while there’s still time. Learn More Books Donate. 11,653 species in Photo Ark as of today. 25 years to document every species

in human care.

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio.

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

THE PHOTO ARK

See a photo you love? Buy a print of it. Or consider our beautiful signed 400-page Photo Ark book, having Joel speak at your business or group, and supporting your local zoo. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Image & Video Use Guidelines The images and videos on this site are the result of thousands of hours of work, and are primarily self-funded. Unfortunately, we can’t make these images & videos available for free. We are fortunate to work with many non-profits, conservation initiatives, individuals, media outlets, publications and businesses. All licensing fees go directly into WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTOREPHOTOS & VIDEOSNEWSSTOREGALLERYFAQCONTACT Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

THE PHOTO ARK

Galleries. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document species before they disappear—and to get people to care while there’s still time. Learn More Books Donate. 11,653 species in Photo Ark as of today. 25 years to document every species

in human care.

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio.

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

THE PHOTO ARK

See a photo you love? Buy a print of it. Or consider our beautiful signed 400-page Photo Ark book, having Joel speak at your business or group, and supporting your local zoo. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Image & Video Use Guidelines The images and videos on this site are the result of thousands of hours of work, and are primarily self-funded. Unfortunately, we can’t make these images & videos available for free. We are fortunate to work with many non-profits, conservation initiatives, individuals, media outlets, publications and businesses. All licensing fees go directly into WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. PRODUCTS - HELP US BUILD THE ARK - JOEL SARTORE The Photo Ark Vanishing Book (Signed Copy) Hardcover, 400 pages, 375 photographs. $40.00. CUSTOM FINE ART PRINTS Custom Fine Art Prints. Archival Prints and Canvas Wraps, $75 and up by Joel Sartore. Nearly every photo on this website is available as an archival print. They’re gorgeous, flawless and look beautiful in an office or home. Our prints are made by professional printmakers, using archival materials and techniques. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

VIDEO ARK - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Video Ark. Our hope is that people will look these creatures in the eyes, and be inspired to care, while there is still time. Don’t see a video that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to

find.

FUNDAMENTALS OF PHOTOGRAPHY With Fundamentals of Photography, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the art and craft of great photography. Designed for people at all levels, these 24 lectures are an engaging guide to how photographs work and how to make them work better for you. Joel Sartore has crafted a WHAT KIND OF CAMERA SHOULD I BUY? The best camera is the one that you will use. That $2,000 DSLR will do you no good if it’s gathering dust on the shelf because it’s too heavy for you to carry comfortably. Try out a camera in person to make sure it feels good in your hands before you buy it. If you go with a DSLR, buy a less expensive body and dedicate more of your budget WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like THE PHOTO ARK: PRESERVING SPECIES BEFORE THEY DISAPPEAR The Photo Ark. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark.

ANI082-00026

A western diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) in the foothills of the Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma. Studies are showing that rattlesnakes that have the genetic tendency to migrate are being killed in ever-increasing numbers on our nation's roads, leaving those snakes with non-migrating tendencies behind to breed. HOW DO I BECOME A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER? I’m asked this question more often than any other. The short reply is “by being very persistent.” And though concise, it’s definitely true. Here are the steps I took: I got into photography late in high school after borrowing an old Olympus camera from a friend’s father. I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and—after changing HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTOREPHOTOS & VIDEOSNEWSSTOREGALLERYFAQCONTACT Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

LANDSCAPES - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Landscapes. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio. JOEL SARTORE AT TEDXMIDWEST The Photo Ark . Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark WHAT KIND OF CAMERA SHOULD I BUY? The best camera is the one that you will use. That $2,000 DSLR will do you no good if it’s gathering dust on the shelf because it’s too heavy for you to carry comfortably. Try out a camera in person to make sure it feels good in your hands before you buy it. If you go with a DSLR, buy a less expensive body and dedicate more of your budget HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. DO YOU TAKE YOUR FAMILY ON ASSIGNMENT WITH YOU? Do you take your family on assignment with you? Most of the time, no. My wife and children have come with me in the past on short trips, but they don’t generally like to come along because I’m working from sunup to sundown (and often later) every day. I’m constantly making

phone calls and

HOME PAGE - JOEL SARTOREGALLERYNEWSFAQSTORECONTACT USABOUT JOEL I’m Joel Sartore. Ever wonder about those wildlife photographers who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the stories and scars to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTOREPHOTOS & VIDEOSNEWSSTOREGALLERYFAQCONTACT Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is GALLERIES - JOEL SARTORE Galleries. Joel Sartore has traveled the world for more than 25 years, photographing subjects from tiny to terrifying. View All Galleries

View All Videos.

LANDSCAPES - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Landscapes. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? My first camera was a Nikon FM2. I paid extra to get the all-black body. It had no motor drive and came with one short, fixed focus lens, probably a 28mm. My first big lens purchase was a Nikon 180mm f/2.8. It was tack sharp and put a lot of pictures into my early portfolio. JOEL SARTORE AT TEDXMIDWEST The Photo Ark . Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark WHAT KIND OF CAMERA SHOULD I BUY? The best camera is the one that you will use. That $2,000 DSLR will do you no good if it’s gathering dust on the shelf because it’s too heavy for you to carry comfortably. Try out a camera in person to make sure it feels good in your hands before you buy it. If you go with a DSLR, buy a less expensive body and dedicate more of your budget HAS YOUR WIFE, KATHY, RECOVERED FROM BREAST CANCER? Has your wife, Kathy, recovered from breast cancer? We hope so. She had been cancer-free since the spring of 2006, but had a relapse this past year. Fortunately it was non-invasive and caught early, so the odds are she’ll be just fine. I wrote an essay about our initial experience for CBS Sunday Morning in 2006. DO YOU TAKE YOUR FAMILY ON ASSIGNMENT WITH YOU? Do you take your family on assignment with you? Most of the time, no. My wife and children have come with me in the past on short trips, but they don’t generally like to come along because I’m working from sunup to sundown (and often later) every day. I’m constantly making

phone calls and

ABOUT JOEL - JOEL SARTORE Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, and an Eagle Scout. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is

THE PHOTO ARK

Galleries. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document species before they disappear—and to get people to care while there’s still time. Learn More Books Donate. 11,653 species in Photo Ark as of today. 25 years to document every species

in human care.

CUSTOM FINE ART PRINTS Custom Fine Art Prints. Archival Prints and Canvas Wraps, $75 and up by Joel Sartore. Nearly every photo on this website is available as an archival print. They’re gorgeous, flawless and look beautiful in an office or home. Our prints are made by professional printmakers, using archival materials and techniques. WE'RE ALL SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS We’re All Surrounded By Survivors. Look around you. The world is full of cancer survivors, and there are more all the time. Kathy Sartore was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. She had a recurrence this year, but thanks to early detection, her prognosis is excellent. In August, Cole Sartore, Joel and Kathy’s

18-year-old son

ABOUT THE PHOTO ARK

About the Photo Ark. The Photo Ark started back in 2005, when my wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My career as a National Geographic photographer came to an abrupt halt as I stayed home to tend to her and our three children. It’s been more than 10 years, and Kathy is fine now, but that year at home gave me a new perspective

on

VIDEO ARK - GALLERY - JOEL SARTORE Gallery: Video Ark. Our hope is that people will look these creatures in the eyes, and be inspired to care, while there is still time. Don’t see a video that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to

find.

THE PHOTO ARK

See a photo you love? Buy a print of it. Or consider our beautiful signed 400-page Photo Ark book, having Joel speak at your business or group, and supporting your local zoo. Don’t see an image that you’re looking for? Use the search field at the top of this page to type in the species or subject you’d like to find. FUNDAMENTALS OF PHOTOGRAPHY With Fundamentals of Photography, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the art and craft of great photography. Designed for people at all levels, these 24 lectures are an engaging guide to how photographs work and how to make them work better for you. Joel Sartore has crafted a THE PHOTO ARK: PRESERVING SPECIES BEFORE THEY DISAPPEAR The Photo Ark. Joel is the founder of the Photo Ark, a groundbreaking effort to document every species in captivity before it’s too late. Explore the Photo Ark. WHAT'S A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER'S SALARY? For starters, it’s not a salary. National Geographic photographers are all independent contractors. That means that their contracts cover one story at a time. No contract, no work; no work, no paycheck. The editorial rate in the U.S. is about $400-$500 per day. This seems like

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BUILDING THE PHOTO ARK Book Joel to Speak  Explore the Photo Ark Dear Friends, We are still open for business, but it might take longer to fill your orders and requests as we have shifted to minimal staffing as a precaution against COVID-19. We appreciate your

patience.

I’M JOEL SARTORE.

Ever wonder about those WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS who risk life and limb to get the perfect shot? That’s me. I’ve spent 25 years with National Geographic—and I’ve got the STORIES AND SCARS to prove it. These days my focus is on the Photo Ark, the world’s largest collection of animal studio portraits. My goal is simple: to get the public to care and SAVE SPECIES FROM EXTINCTION.

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89,888484 species photographed for the Photo Ark

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A modern-day Noah

_—NBC Nightly News_

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1 porcupine named Piper on the cover of _National Geographic_

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4 times chased by grizzlies

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300 talks given worldwide

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2 spitting cobras found in camera gear SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS _“JOEL NEVER FAILS TO DAZZLE.”_ Known for his sense of humor and incredible stories from the field, Joel is a popular speaker with conservation, corporate, and civic

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JOEL SARTORE NEWS

PHOTO ARK MADNESS

March Madness is upon us, and this year, the Photo Ark is unveiling its very own month-long tournament! Throughout the month of March, we’ll be featuring head to head matches of a variety of species featured in the Photo Ark. You can vote via stories on our Instagram page @joelsartore to help determine which animals…

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