A photographer connects with the world through the lens, capturing its raw beauty, untold stories, and fleeting moments that inspire and endure.

Joe Desjardins is a seasoned veteran in the realm of wildlife and nature photography, with an impressive career spanning three decades. He has garnered recognition for his work, earning the esteemed Master Photographer designation from MPI (Master Photographers International). His diverse skillset is evident through his numerous accreditations from PPOC (Professional Photographers of Canada), covering a wide range of subjects including wildlife, nature, portraits, and equine photography.

Beyond his accomplishments, Joe shares his wealth of knowledge and passion for photography as the co-host of The Nature Photo Guys Podcast alongside Chris Gibbs. Through this platform, he offers valuable insights and tips to enthusiasts around the globe. Joe's true joy lies in mentoring aspiring photographers through workshops, seminars, and personalized guidance. He takes pride in helping others develop their skills and discover their own unique artistic vision in the world of photography. Explore more about his work on his official website: http://www.joedesjardins.ca/

What inspired you to become a wildlife photographer?

The love of animals. I've always been captivated by the beauty and intricacies of nature. Wildlife photography became my way of capturing those moments and sharing the wonder of the outdoors. Plus, who wouldn’t want to hang out with bears and elk for a living?

What does photography mean to you, and what makes a great wildlife photograph?

Photography, to me, is more than just capturing moments—it's a way of seeing and connecting with the world around us. As a Canadian wildlife photographer, it has shaped my journey by deepening my appreciation for nature and challenging me to push creative boundaries. It’s not just a profession; it’s a lifestyle that has opened doors to incredible adventures, meaningful storytelling, and the opportunity to inspire others to see the beauty in the wild places that surround us. In my opinion, a great wildlife photograph is one that tells a story and evokes emotion. It captures not just the subject, but the essence of the moment—whether it's the power of a predator, the gentleness of a mother and her young, or the beauty of an animal in its natural habitat. Composition, lighting, and the ability to freeze a fleeting moment all play a key role, but it's the connection between the viewer and the subject that truly makes a photograph unforgettable.

What are the most fascinating or rewarding moments you’ve experienced during your shoots?

Some of the most fascinating moments come when nature surprises you—like witnessing a rare behavior or catching the perfect light at just the right time. One of the most rewarding experiences is earning the trust of an animal; when they feel comfortable enough to carry on as if you’re not even there, it’s a truly humbling experience. It’s those magical, unplanned moments that keep me passionate about what I do.

How do you adapt to different conditions during wildlife shoots and ensure safety when working with wild animals?

Working with wild animals always comes with risks, but respecting their space and behavior minimizes those challenges. I never approach too closely or interfere with their natural activities. Researching animal behavior and the environment beforehand helps me understand what to expect. Safety is always a priority—not just for me, but for the animals too—so I rely on long lenses to maintain distance while capturing those intimate, natural moments.   Adapting to different environments and weather conditions is all part of the adventure of wildlife photography. I always prepare by researching the area and packing the right gear, whether it’s waterproof equipment for rain or layers for freezing temperatures. Patience and flexibility are key—sometimes you must wait hours in the cold or adjust quickly to changing light. I see these challenges as part of what makes capturing the perfect shot so rewarding!

“It’s not just a profession; it’s a lifestyle”

What are you currently working on in your wildlife photography?

Right now, I’m focused on creating engaging content that showcases the beauty of the outdoors while also expanding my work through workshops and seminars. I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge and helping others improve their skills, whether it’s composition, lighting, or just learning to see nature in a new way. I’m also taking on speaking engagements to connect with fellow photographers and nature enthusiasts, which is always inspiring and energizing.

Could you tell us about the Nature Photo Guys podcast?

The Nature Photo Guys podcast, hosted by Chris Gibbs and I, was inspired by our shared passion for nature photography and the desire to connect with like-minded individuals. We explore a range of topics including photography techniques, gear reviews, conservation efforts, and personal stories from the field. Our goal is for listeners to gain practical insights, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for both photography and the natural world. Hosting the podcast has also helped us refine our own approach to photography, fostering a greater sense of creativity and technical skill through the exchange of ideas and experiences.

What are the biggest challenges in your current projects, and how are you addressing them?

One of the biggest challenges in my current projects is balancing the creative aspects of wildlife photography with the logistical demands of running workshops, seminars, and content creation. Time management is key, so I’ve been streamlining my processes and prioritizing tasks to stay organized. Another challenge is ensuring each workshop or seminar offers something fresh and valuable, which I tackle by constantly refining my material and staying updated with the latest techniques and trends in the field.

How do you prepare for a wildlife photography shoot, both mentally and technically?

Preparation for a wildlife shoot starts well before I step outside. Mentally, I focus on patience and adaptability, knowing that nature doesn’t always follow a schedule. I visualize potential shots and remind myself to stay open to the unexpected.   Technically, I research the species and location to understand behavior patterns and lighting conditions. I make sure my gear is ready—clean lenses, charged batteries, and appropriate settings for the environment. I also pack essentials like weather protection, snacks, and a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked. Being prepared helps me stay focused and ready to capture those fleeting moments in the wild.

How do you balance creativity and productivity in your photography career? Any habits or routines that keep you inspired and efficient?

Balancing creativity and productivity is all about finding a rhythm that works for both. I set aside specific times for creative exploration, like scouting new locations or experimenting with techniques, without worrying about deadlines. For productivity, I stick to routines like batch processing photos, maintaining an organized workflow, and planning my projects in advance. To stay inspired, I take breaks to reconnect with nature without the camera—it helps me see things with fresh eyes. Setting small, achievable goals for each day also keeps me motivated while allowing space for creative spontaneity.

Do you have any productivity tips or tools that help streamline your process, from fieldwork to post-processing?

Absolutely! In the field, I rely on a shot list to stay organized while leaving room for spontaneity. I also label my memory cards and backup images as soon as possible to avoid data loss. For post-processing, tools like Lightroom and Photoshop are indispensable—I use presets and batch editing to save time while maintaining consistency. Staying organized with a clear file-naming system and external backups ensures I can find and protect my work. Finally, setting aside dedicated blocks of time for editing and workflow helps me stay efficient and focused.

“Balancing creativity and productivity is all about finding a rhythm that works for both.”

How long have you been using the ScreenBar Halo, and how has it helped in your work?

I've been using the ScreenBar Halo for a while now, and it’s been a game-changer in my workflow. Its adjustable lighting helps reduce eye strain during long editing sessions, especially when working late. The even, glare-free illumination makes it easier to focus on fine details in my images, ensuring my edits are precise. It’s such a simple tool, but it’s had a big impact on both my comfort and productivity.   My favorite feature of the ScreenBar Halo is its adjustable brightness and color temperature. Being able to customize the lighting to match the time of day or my specific needs makes it incredibly versatile. It creates the perfect environment for editing without causing eye strain, which is essential during those long hours of post-processing.

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What are your future goals as a photographer, and what advice would you give to aspiring photographers?

My future goals as a photographer are to continue pushing my creative boundaries and telling compelling stories through my images. I want to expand my workshops and seminars to reach more people and inspire them to connect with nature through photography. Additionally, I’m looking to explore new techniques and technologies to elevate my work further, while also focusing on projects that showcase the incredible beauty of the natural world.   My advice for aspiring photographers is simple: stay curious and keep shooting. Photography is a journey, and the more you practice, the more your skills and style will evolve. Learn the fundamentals of composition and light, but don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes—that’s where real growth happens. Most importantly, stay patient and persistent. Great shots don’t always come easy, but the rewards are worth it when you capture something truly special.

“Great shots don’t always come easy, but the rewards are worth it”

To learn more about Joe Desjardins’s photography journey and his accomplishments, please visit the links below:

Social Media

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/joe.desjardins.144

https://www.facebook.com/JoeDesjardins.ca

IG https://www.instagram.com/joedesjardins.ca

Website www.joedesjardins.ca

The Nature Photo Guys Podcast

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thenaturephotoguyspodcast

IG https://www.instagram.com/thenaturephotoguyspodcast

Website https://www.thenaturephotoguys.ca/