Gold Nature Photographers Network - Marco Gaiotti - Habitat

https://community.naturephotographers.network/c/learning/webinar-recordings/133/l/latest

About the Webinar
The depletion of Earth’s biodiversity is an undeniable and alarming reality that has left an indelible mark on recent decades. Experts have labeled this period as the sixth mass extinction since life first appeared on our planet. A study conducted in 2017 revealed a disheartening phenomenon known as “biological extermination,” which is impacting not only endangered species but also a significant portion of the fastest-declining species that are currently not considered at risk. The study focused on 177 mammal species, all of which experienced a reduction in their ranges by more than 30%, with almost half of them losing over 80% of their habitats.

The primary driver behind this decline is the destruction of natural habitats due to the ever-growing human population and its consequent pressure on the environment. This project, born from a decade-long photographic endeavor, aims to pay tribute to the remnants of terrestrial ecosystems where diverse forms of life still find a sanctuary.

Rather than simply capturing isolated subjects, the goal of set nature photography is to showcase the subject within its distinctive context. The true essence of a photograph lies in the profound connection between the portrayed subject and its surrounding environment, where the natural habitat takes center stage.

What follows is a collection of images spanning the globe, encompassing diverse regions from the Arctic’s icy landscapes to Africa’s arid territories, from the winter vistas of Japan to the lush forests of Indonesia. Despite the geographical variations, these images share a common thread—the pivotal role played by the environment surrounding the animals depicted.

About Marco
In 2007 Marco discovered, almost by chance, the wild environments of Southern Africa, and with them his passion for nature photography, which pushes him every year to explore the most pristine habitats on our planet. In 2009, he spent a month in Alaska observing the fauna and spectacular local landscapes, in complete autonomy, camping in the wild nature. From this experience grew the desire to give a more professional tone to the passion for photography.

In the autumn of 2013, he took part in an expedition to the Svalbard Islands, a few days before the Arctic night. The results of this photographic adventure resulted into publications in the most important international newspapers, including a double-page print in the paper edition of ‘The Guardian’.

In recent years his style has moved towards environmental nature photography, where the animal subject is portrayed emphasizing the context in which it is inserted. The photo is charged with meaning when the surrounding environment strongly characterizes the image, and the true subject portrayed seems to be the natural habitat.

Marco took part in the prestigious “Prints for Wildlife” campaign and “The New Big Five Project”, with his images published on magazines like BBC wildlife and CNN Travel, among others.

Over the last ten years, Marco has received important international recognition including: SONY WPA (Open Shortlist), winner of the “Conservation Story” category at Nature’s Best, Windland Smith Rice International Awards, two times overall winner at the Maria Luisa Memorial and the special jury prize at OASIS 2023. Moreover, he has been category winner at GDT European Photographer of the Year, Asferico, Montphoto and Glanzlichter. Other prices include Siena International Photo Awards and the Nature Photographer of the year.

Marco also obtained a PhD in naval architecture in 2012, and currently works as an associate professor of shipbuilding at the University of Genoa. His long passion for the mountains and snow eventually led him to become an alpine skiing instructor and coach.

Website: https://500px.com/p/marcogaiotti?view=photos

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