Macro Photographer Reveals Tiny Insect Worlds
Once fearing spiders, photographer Dara Ojo now unveils their hidden beauty. His extreme close-up images of insects highlight their intricate structures and advocate for their conservation, captivating audiences worldwide.
From Fear to Fascination
Ojo, 34, masterfully captures wildlife at an extreme magnification. His macrophotography reveals the captivating details of tiny creatures, from spiders to dragonflies. The photographer’s work is a testament to the beauty often overlooked in the insect world.
“Every time I’m shooting an insect I’m delighted, curious and intrigued by the art and detail of their structure,” Ojo said.
A Conservation Storyteller
Ojo describes himself as a conservation storyteller. His images shine a light on small details, inviting viewers to appreciate what they might otherwise miss. He hopes his work inspires empathy and motivates action to protect these creatures.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Ojo’s interest in photography began with his father’s camera. He later found himself photographing insects, seeking a remedy for the boredom of the pandemic lockdown while teaching English in China. He noticed a gap in online nature photography, inspiring him to give insects positive publicity.
Viral Images and Recognition
Ojo learned macrophotography through YouTube tutorials and a course at the University of Alberta. His 2020 dragonfly image was followed by a viral photo of a white-striped longhorn beetle. The beetle, typically 20–40 mm long, appears human-sized in Ojo‘s photos, revealing unseen details.
Insects play a critical role in the functioning of ecosystems and human survival. The work of @DaraOjo showcases the beauty of insects and sheds light on the need to protect them and their habitats. Let’s celebrate #WorldBiodiversityDay! pic.twitter.com/09P5zUfW7N
— Amina J Mohammed (@AminaJMohammed) May 22, 2024
Ojo’s work has garnered millions of views online. The UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, shared his images on X for World Biodiversity Day. This recognition has increased the pressure on Ojo.
“Now that eyes are on me, globally, I have to keep the bar higher than the last, each time I shoot. Also, as a black person, I feel like a role model, giving a voice as people of color who are not usually seen in this kind of field. I therefore can’t stay comfortable,”
—Dara Ojo
Striking Images and Species Focus
His portfolio also includes images of the primrose moth, a spiny-backed orb weaver spider, a katydid, and a wolf spider eating a frog. Ojo has photographed a wide array of insects, from spiders to damselflies. However, he is most concerned about bees, whose populations are declining and are essential pollinators.
Ojo‘s work is now featured in the documentary series, “Bugs that Rule the World.” This series explores the decline of insect populations, emphasizing the impact on the ecosystem and humanity. It showcases photographs taken in Costa Rica. According to the UN Environment Programme, insect populations are declining at an alarming rate, threatening ecosystems and human well-being.
A Data Analyst and Photographer
Beyond photography, Ojo works as a data analyst at the University of Alberta and has an MBA in information technology. His technical skills assist in image processing, including nighttime and early-morning shoots when insects are resting. He combines multiple photos at different depths to create sharp focus. He then digitally edits the images, primarily enhancing colors.
“The primary goal is to use my images to reveal the beauty of insects and other small creatures,” Ojo said. “When people are blown away by the pictures, they are curious and develop empathy to conserve them.” His advocacy focuses on the peril facing insect populations worldwide, with many species being critically endangered.
