Science Friday A Photographer Captures Nature In Mind-Boggling Detail
Sep 10, 2025
Anand Varma, an award-winning science photographer and National Geographic Explorer, shares his journey of capturing nature's hidden details. He delves into the emotional struggles behind photographing elusive subjects, like hummingbird wings, revealing the determination required for artistic excellence. Varma discusses how macro photography unveils the beauty of small creatures and reframes our perception of wildlife. He also explores the intersection of art and science, showcasing how photography fosters a deeper appreciation for the often-overlooked elements of nature.
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The Hidden Frustration Of Creative Work
- Anand admits much of his work feels like failing while he faces problems he doesn't know how to solve.
- He describes that prolonged uncertainty and wasted effort as the worst part of his job.
Hummingbird Vortex Experiment
- Anand spent months trying to photograph hummingbird wing vortices and initially saw nothing despite recreating the scientists' setup.
- He solved it by shooting high-speed video to confirm timing and then relied on luck and repetition to capture the final image.
Break Big Problems Into Small Wins
- When progress stalls, look for smaller wins and eliminate bad options rather than expecting sudden breakthroughs.
- Use the anticipation of sharing a surprising image to stay motivated through long struggles.