From how you approach being in the field and scouting locations, to how you approach the stories you photograph and communicate conservation issues, these 6 books are the (unconventional) must-read list for every conservation photographer.
An unconventional reading list for the conservation photographer
Some of the most important books a nature conservation photographer can read have NOTHING to do with photography.
From ethical wildlife photography practices to effective communication, the work we do requires knowing much more than simply how to use a camera and capture compelling compositions.
This article highlights 6 of the best reads you could add to your nightstand “to-read” book pile!
1. What the Robin Knows by Jon Young
This book cracked open a whole new world for me. I picked it up around 2017 when I was starting my Oregon Coast photo tours company. I wanted to learn as much as possible about naturalist skills and training because I wanted my tours to be more than just about taking pretty pictures. I wanted to teach people about the natural history and conservation stories behind what they were seeing.
What the Robin Knows is all about understanding bird behavior and language. Jon Young teaches you how to eavesdrop on birds to learn what’s happening in the environment. This knowledge is invaluable for nature photographers because it helps you anticipate wildlife movements and minimize your impact on the environment. By paying attention to bird songs, calls, and alarms, as well as their movements, you can figure out what other animals are in the area and how to approach without disturbing them.
This book opened up a flood of joy and knowledge about naturalist skills. It made me realize that understanding bird language could make me a better, more ethical wildlife photographer. If you want to learn how to use bird behavior to your advantage in the field, this book is a must-read.
2. Animal Tracking Basics by Jon Young and Tiffany Morgan
After What the Robin Knows, I dove into Animal Tracking Basics. I had this book on my shelf for years before finally reading it. It taught me how to read tracks and signs in nature, providing a foundation for understanding what’s happening in the landscape even when wildlife isn’t immediately visible.
This book changed my approach to photography by helping me think critically about why I’m going to a location and what I expect to see there. It taught me to develop a sit spot routine, which has been crucial for building patience and awareness. Sitting still and observing quietly can lead to capturing incredible, intimate moments with wildlife.
For instance, I bought a kayak named Mary Oliver and used it to explore a calm stream area. By observing bird behavior and waiting patiently, I’ve been able to capture amazing shots of swallows feeding their fledglings and shorebirds feeding close by. These moments were possible because I practiced the sit spot routine and paid attention to the landscape in a new way.
3. Nature Wars: The Incredible Story of How Wildlife Comebacks Turned Backyards into Battlegrounds by Jim Sterba
This book was recommended to me by a researcher while working on the Urban Coyote Initiative. It explores the challenges of wildlife comebacks in human-dominated landscapes. Nature Wars presents stories of animals like beavers and coyotes making a comeback and the conflicts that arise when they do.
Jim Sterba’s writing reminds us that every conservation issue has multiple valid perspectives. Understanding both the human and wildlife sides of the story is crucial for finding solutions. This book shaped my mindset, helping me realize that effective conservation storytelling involves acknowledging and addressing the concerns of all parties involved.
If you’re documenting a controversial species or issue, Nature Wars is a must-read. It will help you understand the complexities of human-wildlife coexistence and tell more balanced, impactful stories.
4. Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall B. Rosenberg
This book was a game-changer for me, especially when working on projects with people I didn’t see eye-to-eye with. Nonviolent Communication provides tools for understanding and empathizing with others, which is crucial in conservation work.
It taught me to listen fully and present my views in a way that others can hear and accept. This ability to bridge communication divides is essential for effective conservation storytelling. By understanding where others are coming from, we can create stories that resonate and inspire action.
Even if you don’t practice nonviolent communication perfectly, the skills you’ll learn from this book will improve your interactions and storytelling. It’s a valuable read for anyone working in conservation or any field that involves collaboration and communication.
5. Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller
Although this is a business book, its principles are highly applicable to conservation storytelling. Building a StoryBrand teaches a simple formula for crafting clear, compelling messages. Replace “customers” with “viewers” and “grow your business” with “make a bigger impact for conservation,” and you’ll see how relevant it is.
The formula is straightforward: A character has a problem, meets a guide, who gives them a plan, and calls them to action, which helps them avoid failure and achieve success. This structure can help you create conservation stories that engage and motivate your audience.
By clarifying your message and making it relatable, you can make a bigger impact with your storytelling. This book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their communication and storytelling skills.
6. Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo
If you’re interested in or already giving presentations about your work, Talk Like TED is essential reading. It provides insights into effective public speaking and storytelling, drawing on examples from TED Talks.
The book offers practical tips and strategies for engaging your audience and making your message memorable. Whether you’re speaking at events, writing articles, or creating presentations, the principles in this book will help you communicate more effectively.
It’s not just about public speaking; it’s about shaping your stories in a way that resonates with your audience. If you want to improve your storytelling skills and make a bigger impact, Talk Like TED is a must-read.
These six books have profoundly shaped my approach to conservation photography and visual storytelling. They cover everything from understanding nature and ethical wildlife photography to effective communication and storytelling. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the field for years, these books offer valuable insights and practical advice.
I hope you find these recommendations helpful. If you have any book suggestions that have changed how you think about photography, storytelling, or conservation, I’d love to hear them. Happy reading!
Resources Mentioned
- What the Robin Knows by Jon Young
- Animal Tracking Basics by Jon Young and Tiffany Morgan
- Nature Wars: The incredible story of how wildlife comebacks turned backyards into battlegrounds by Jim Sterba
- Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Dr. Marshall B. Rosenberg
- Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo
- Building a Storybrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller
