The Nature Photo Guys

What does it take to become Canadian Wildlife Photographer of the Year?In this episode of The Nature Photo Guys Podcast, Joe Desjardins and Chris Gibbs sit down with wildlife and conservation photographer David Sturge, the 2026 Canadian Geographic Wildlife Photographer of the Year.Based in Newfoundland and Labrador, David has built his photography around a deep connection with wildlife, wild places and conservation. He is also a provincial park ranger, wildlife guide, sea captain and expedition team lead, which gives him a unique perspective when working in the field.We talk with David about his journey into wildlife photography, the stories behind his images, photographing the incredible wildlife of Newfoundland and Labrador, conservation photography, fieldcraft, storytelling and what it means to have his work recognized by Canadian Geographic.David also shares the experiences, challenges and lessons that have shaped the way he approaches wildlife photography today.If you're interested in wildlife photography, nature photography, conservation, photographing Canadian wildlife or simply becoming a better visual storyteller, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.Follow David and see more of his work:Website: https://www.sturgephotography.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sturgephotography/Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'Thanks for watching!#DavidSturge #WildlifePhotography #CanadianGeographic #WildlifePhotographerOfTheYear #NaturePhotography #ConservationPhotography #NaturePhotoGuys #CanadianWildlife #PhotographyPodcast #wildlifephotographer

It’s been a while, and we’ve got a lot to catch up on.In this episode of The Nature Photo Guys Podcast, Joe and Chris sit down to talk about everything that’s happened since spring. From photography workshops and events to time in the field, travel, wildlife encounters, new adventures, and what’s coming next, there’s been plenty happening.And there’s some exciting news to celebrate: Chris was named runner-up in the Terrestrial Life category of Canadian Geographic’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition!We’ll talk about Chris’s recognition, highlights from the past few months, behind-the-scenes stories, lessons from the field, and the adventures and projects coming up.If you’re into wildlife and nature photography or just want to catch up with what we’ve been doing, grab a coffee and join us.In this episode:• Chris’s Canadian Geographic Wildlife Photographer of the Year recognition• Where we’ve been since spring• Recent workshops and photography events• Wildlife and travel adventures• What’s coming next for The Nature Photo GuysSubscribe to The Nature Photo Guys Podcast for conversations about wildlife photography, nature, gear, fieldcraft, adventures, and life behind the lens.#TheNaturePhotoGuysPodcast #CanadianGeographic #NaturePhotography #WildlifePhotography #joedesjardinsca #footprintsinnatureDon't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'Thanks for watching!

This week on The Nature Photo Guys Podcast, we're leaving the wildlife behind for a while and pointing our cameras considerably farther away.We sit down with astrophotographer Bray Falls, Observatory Director at STARFRONT Observatories, to talk about the fascinating world of deep-sky astrophotography and what it takes to photograph objects millions of light-years from Earth.Bray's journey began with a passion for astronomy and a telescope as a teenager and eventually led to STARFRONT Observatories, a world-class remote telescope facility under the incredibly dark skies of Texas.We talk about Bray's journey into astrophotography, the technology and techniques behind photographing deep space, the challenges of capturing objects we can't see with our own eyes, and the incredible growth and story behind STARFRONT.For wildlife and nature photographers, this is a fascinating look at an entirely different side of photography, one where the subjects aren't running away, but they may be a few million light-years away.Whether you're an astrophotographer, nature photographer, or simply fascinated by what lies beyond our planet, there's plenty to take away from this conversation.

Joining us today is Dee Webb, a passionate wildlife photographer and guide who calls Southern Alberta her steadfast anchor. Growing up in the untamed landscapes of outback Australia, she developed a deep connection with the outdoors before eventually falling in love with the Canadian wilderness at Birdseye Ranch, nestled on the outskirts of the breathtaking Waterton National Park.After years of nurturing young minds, she and her husband chose to simplify their existence, trading their belongings for the freedom of a holiday trailer. Today, she channels her profound joy for nature into ‘Focus Photo Tours’.Through small, personalized tours, her team prioritizes authentic encounters, sustainable travel, and expert guidance. She is more than just a guide, she is your partner in spotting elusive wildlife, perfecting your technique, and capturing the extraordinary beauty of the natural world.*Show Links*• Dee Webb Website | https://www.deewebbphotography.com• Dee Webb Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/deewebbphotography• Dee Webb Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/share/1FoF44wwTX/?mibextid=wwXIfr• Focus Photo Tours Website | https://focusphototours.com• Focus Photo Tours Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/focusphototours• Focus Photo Tours Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/focusphototoursDon't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'Thanks for watching!

Jesse and Susan of Follow Me North join us to share the story behind one of Canada's most respected wildlife photography brands.What started with a shared love of nature has grown into a business built around ethical wildlife photography, conservation, and helping photographers gain confidence in the field. Based near Algonquin Park, Jesse and Susan have created an ego-free approach to teaching that's refreshing in today's photography world.In this episode, we discuss:• How Follow Me North got started• Their journey from careers outside photography to full-time educators• Why ethics always come before the photograph• Building confidence behind the camera• Social media, YouTube, and growing an authentic brand• The business of photography workshops• Conservation and giving back through their work• Advice for photographers looking to build a career in photographyIf you're passionate about wildlife, photography, or building a meaningful creative business, you'll enjoy this conversation.Follow Jesse & Susan:📷 Instagram: @followmenorth🌲 Website: https://www.followmenorth.comDon't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'Thanks for watching!

In this episode, we’re putting the Leofoto WN-03 door mount to the test, and honestly, we think it’s a game-changer for wildlife photographers and filmmakers working from a vehicle.Paired with a fluid head, the setup is incredibly smooth, stable, and surprisingly solid in the field. Whether you’re tracking moving wildlife, filming with long lenses out the truck window, or trying to stay mobile without dragging a tripod around, this just works.Simple idea, built well, and one of those pieces of gear that makes you wonder why you didn’t start using it sooner. A steady shot from a vehicle without fighting your setup? That’s worth its weight in gold, or at least a few cups of Kicking Horse coffee.Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'

In this episode, we’re handing the mic over to you! We’ve gathered the most frequent, interesting, and challenging questions from our community and sat down to answer them all.

So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join us for this deep dive into the world of The Nature Photo Guys!

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'

Thanks for watching!

How do you go from your first DSLR to leading workshops with National Geographic in just five years?

In this episode, Joe and Chris sit down with Colby Brown, renowned photographer and Sony Artisan of Imagery, to break down his journey into landscape, wildlife and humanitarian photography.

We cover his global work, his nonprofit The Giving Lens, and how he collaborates with major brands like Samsung and Travel Alberta, all while using photography to drive real-world change.

If you're serious about photography, storytelling, and building a career with purpose, this one is for you.*Show Links*

• Colby Brown Website | https://www.colbybrownphotography.com/

• Colby Brown Workshops / Tours | https://www.colbybrownphotography.com/photography-workshops/

• The Giving Lens Website | https://thegivinglens.com/

• The Giving Lens Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thegivinglens/

• Colby Brown Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/colbybrownphotography

• Colby Brown Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/ColbyThomasBrown/

• Colby Brown Threads | https://www.threads.com/@colbybrownphotography

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'

Thanks for watching!

In this episode of The Nature Photo Guys Podcast, Joe and Chris break down a recent, heart-pounding encounter with a lynx.

Beyond the feline highlight, we’re catching you up on everything else in our world:

• The Lynx Breakdown: A firsthand look at the gear used during this incredible sighting.

• What’s New in the Bag: We’re discussing the latest photography gear we’ve been testing and how it’s holding up in the field.

• On the Road: We have a lineup of upcoming speaking engagements! We’re sharing where we’ll be headed next and how you can join us.

• Life on the Trail: A recap of our recent outings and a general "what’s up" with the duo as we navigate the current season.

Whether you’re here for the wildlife stories or the technical talk, grab a seat and join the conversation.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe, and hit the bell to see more content from 'The Nature Photo Guys!'

Thanks for watching!