Nature Night: Photographing the Secret Worlds of Nature

Common Nighthawk - Michael Durham

This event is part of Portland Audubon's monthly Nature Night lecture series. Each talk is free and open to the public, so grab a seat and get ready to learn more about the natural world.

Photographing the Secret Worlds of Nature, with Michael Durham

What is the exact wingbeat sequence and leg position of a bee or a dragonfly in flight? What does a coho salmon look like just before it emerges from the egg? How do bats use their wings to maneuver? Which creatures drink at a waterhole at night?

Internationally published photographer Michael Durham has uncovered the answers to questions like these by using the camera to see beyond what human eyes can perceive -- to look at natural events that take place at lightning speed, in the dark or in hidden spaces. His unconventional techniques and custom equipment allow Michael to explore the secretive and hidden side of nature.

According to Michael, “so much of the complex web of life that connects everything in an ecosystem is just out of sight, but a camera can be used to reveal what the human eye misses.” At Portland Audubon's Dec. 11 Nature Night, Michael will share his knowledge and extraordinary photographs.

Born in 1964 in Oregon, Michael started his photo career in commercial photography and eventually migrated into natural history photography and journalism. He has also worked with the Oregon Zoo for 22 years and currently produces much of their digital media. His work has appeared in books, magazines and digital media throughout Europe, Asia and North America, including Nature’s Best, Audubon, National Wildlife, Sierra, Defenders, Nature Conservancy Magazine, BBC Wildlife, Orion, National Geographic for Kids, and many more.

You don’t have to be an expert photographer to enjoy this evening!