I am Dara Ojo, a macro photographer and conservation storyteller based in Edmonton, Canada. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, my early exposure to biodiversity shaped my deep appreciation for the natural world. However, it wasn’t until the COVID-19 isolation in China that I discovered my passion for macro photography.
What started as a creative escape became a lifelong pursuit of capturing the intricate beauty of arthropods. Through high-resolution photography, I challenge misconceptions and inspire appreciation for these often-overlooked creatures. My work reveals the mesmerizing textures, colors, and behaviors of insects and arachnids—bringing attention to their vital roles in our ecosystems.
My journey has taken me across China, Canada, and Costa Rica, documenting arthropods in their natural habitats. Whether deep in the rainforests or navigating the rugged Canadian wilderness, I aim to bridge the gap between art and science, fostering curiosity and conservation through visual storytelling.
I use macro photography to bridge the gap between art, science, and conservation, revealing the hidden world of arthropods. My goal is to:
Growing up in Lagos, I was drawn to nature’s complexity in unexpected places. That early exposure continues to shape my work. Even the smallest creatures deserve recognition and protection, and through storytelling, I hope to inspire appreciation for their role in our world.
I recently exhibited at the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) as part of the Five Artists, One Love exhibition, which ran until March 30, 2025. The show explored cultural identity through photography, and I used the platform to showcase the beauty and ecological significance of arthropods—shifting perceptions of these often-overlooked creatures.
My work will be featured on the cover of Nature Alberta magazine’s Spring 2025 issue, further amplifying the message of arthropod conservation.
In May 2025, my PBS documentary will air, sharing my journey into macro photography and the vital role arthropods play in ecosystems with a broader audience.
Beyond exhibitions, I lead macro photography workshops, collaborate with conservation organizations, and engage with schools to introduce students to the hidden world of insects—bridging art, science, and conservation through visual storytelling.
