Into the Unknown with Dara OJO
A current Alberta resident, but originally from Nigeria, Dara Ojo has travelled the world photographing masterful macro images. Dara began his photography journey while living in China during the pandemic and quickly crafted a breathtaking artistic resonance within his work. Featured on CBC, CTV, Global News, Adobe’s Lightroom and at the UN Conference of Biodiversity, Dara’s work offers a unique view of the smaller side of nature. A passionate advocate for exploration and community building, Dara also teaches workshops and leads photography outings, helping others discover the big beautiful world of bugs. Travel with Dara Into the Unknown as he snaps portraits of our tiny neighbours while highlighting the importance of representation in the world of photography.
The world of macro photography may focus on the minuscule, but the methodology behind wildlife photography in general remains the same regardless of the scale of your subject. Why is it important to learn the behaviour of insects and arachnids, and how can it improve your work?
Understanding the behaviour of insects and arachnids is crucial in macro photography because it not only allows you to anticipate their movements but also helps you identify where and when to find them. This improves your timing, composition, and overall storytelling. For example, early on, I made the mistake of going out in the middle of the day to capture a close-up of a dragonfly—impossible, as they’re too active then to let you get close. Just like in larger-scale wildlife photography, knowing their habits, feeding patterns, or mating rituals lets you approach them more respectfully and capture authentic, captivating moments. With this knowledge, you minimize disturbance while achieving stunning, intimate shots.
Your photography is a fascinating combination of macro and portraiture. What’s the secret to capturing personality in your subjects, and why is it important to showcase the beauty of arthropods?
The secret to capturing personality in arthropods lies in focusing on their unique traits, much like in human portraiture. It’s about getting up close and finding angles that highlight their distinct features—whether it’s the delicate patterns of a moth’s wings or the expressive eyes of a jumping spider. Lighting and composition are key to bringing out their character. By showcasing the beauty of these often-overlooked creatures, I aim to spark a sense of wonder and appreciation. And with that spark, I hope to inspire love for arthropods, which in turn fuels a desire for conservation and protecting these vital parts of our ecosystem.
As a person of colour in the world of wildlife photography, you have highlighted the importance of your work being showcased by large organizations like the UN Conference of Biodiversity. Why is representation so important in the world of photography, and how can the art form be more inclusive?
Representation is crucial in wildlife photography because it broadens the perspectives and stories being told. As a person of colour, being showcased by organizations like the UN Conference of Biodiversity means more than just recognition—it opens the door for others like me to see themselves in spaces they might have felt excluded from. Diversity in photography allows for different cultural, environmental, and emotional connections with the natural world, making the art form richer and more relatable. To make photography more inclusive, we need to create opportunities for underrepresented voices, whether through mentorship, funding, or platforms that elevate diverse talent. When more people from different backgrounds are behind the lens, we capture a fuller, more authentic view of the world we share.
Looking at this specific shot, what was it about this capture that got you excited, and how did the image come about?
What really excited me about this shot of the fly covered in bubbly morning dew was the serene, almost magical atmosphere of the moment. It was taken around 4 AM, just as the first light of dawn began to creep in, thanks to the long summer days. The early morning dew settled perfectly on the fly’s entire body, creating a shimmering effect that transformed a common insect into something extraordinary. Choosing to capture a full-body shot rather than just a close-up of the face allowed me to highlight every tiny, dew-covered detail—from the translucent wings to the delicate legs. The cooler morning air kept the fly still, giving me the opportunity to compose the shot just as the light was breaking. It’s a reminder of the beauty in the everyday, revealing the often-overlooked splendor of nature’s smallest creatures.
You have used everything from diffusers made of cans and paper towel rolls to powerhouse lenses. What surprised you the most about macro photography, and what tips would you give someone who has just purchased their first macro lens?
What really surprised me about macro photography is how the simplest setups can often produce the best results. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true—your first setup is always the best because it's where you learn the fundamentals. The most important thing to invest in, without a doubt, is lighting and a diffuser. You can have the best lens, but if your lighting isn’t right, your shot won’t reach its full potential. A good diffuser will soften the light and bring out all those intricate details that make macro photography so special.
For anyone just starting out with their first macro lens, I’d say focus on mastering your lighting before worrying about upgrading other gear. Start with a basic diffuser—there are plenty of DIY options—and practice with different lighting conditions. You’ll be amazed at how much it transforms your images. And don’t forget patience is key; take the time to learn your gear and your subjects. That combination will set you up for success!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my experiences and insights. It’s been a pleasure!
A heartfelt thanks to Dara for sharing a glimpse behind the curtain when it comes to his stunning work. If you are as blown away by Dara’s images as I am, check out his Facebook page and Instagram account.
