About this episode
Summary In this episode, hosts Ron Hayes, Jason Loftus, and Mark Raycroft interview Jules Jacobs, a wildlife photographer who has bridged the gap between the pure science of oceanography and the real-world changes our oceans are experiencing. His photography and editorial have captured the attention of the world in the Smithsonian and New York Times. The discussion in this episode is heavily focused on the impact of human activities on ecosystems but quest Jules Jacobs also details underwater photography tips. Jules shares his journey from photographing seahorses in his aquarium to becoming an underwater photographer. They also discuss the importance of storytelling in conservation photography and the need to raise awareness about the biodiversity crisis. The conversation covers themes such as urban wildlife, rodenticides and their impact on predators, and the adaptability of wildlife. They also touch on the challenges and rewards of underwater photography and the thrill of encountering marine life in their natural habitat. Jules Jacobs shares his experiences and insights into the world of underwater photography. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of capturing wildlife underwater, emphasizing the importance of getting close to the subjects and finding local spots to explore. Jules also shares a personal story of a diving accident that led him to focus on photographing intertidal creatures and discovering the world of fluorescence. He highlights the significance of building relationships with scientists and using photography to contribute to conservation efforts. Jules provides tips for aspiring underwater photographers, including finding a subject, experimenting with different techniques, and gradually transitioning to more advanced equipment. Takeaways Conservation photography plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the biodiversity crisis and inspiring action. Urban environments can support diverse wildlife populations, and documenting their presence can help promote conservation efforts. Rodenticides can have far-reaching effects on ecosystems, impacting not only the targeted pests but also the predators that consume them. Underwater photography presents unique challenges and rewards, allowing for a closer look at marine life and their habitats. Underwater photography offers a unique perspective on wildlife, allowing photographers to get inches away from creatures that are typically more elusive on land. Finding local spots and focusing on a specific subject can help photographers develop their skills and create unique and original images. Building relationships with scientists and connecting photography to science and conservation can elevate the impact of the images and contribute to important research. Transitioning from DSLR to mirrorless cameras in underwater photography requires careful consideration of equipment compatibility and limitations. Adapting to challenging underwater conditions, such as poor visibility or particulates in the water, can lead to creative approaches and unique storytelling opportunities. Sound Bites "I'm not stuck somewhere that I can't be with my family." "We are all photojournalists, telling the story of our planet at this point in time." "Reefs are a really great indicator; they're the canary of the coal mine." "Underwater, we are entering a world that they've really never experienced humans." "Finding that local spot, finding what your thing is that you can really hammer in on, whether it's with birds and wildlife, terrestrially or underwater, is really how you grow your skills in an area." "Find a subject and get weird." Chapters 01:00 Missed Travel Opportunities and Appreciating Safety 06:00 The Power of Conservation Photography 10:53 Exploring Urban Wildlife and the Impact of Rodenticides 27:04 The Challenges and Rewards of Underwater Photography 43:40 Entering the Underwater World 45:26 From Diving Accident to Intertidal Photography 47:51 The Importance of Building Relationships with Scientists 51:43 Tips for Aspiring Underwater Photographers 56:02 Transitioning to Mirrorless Cameras in Underwater Photography 1:00:20 Adapting to Challenging Underwater Conditions Guests (Instagram) @ julesjacobs_photo