My name is Josiah Patrick. I am a nature photographer and budding naturalist based in Atlanta, Georgia. I am passionate about the conservation of the natural world.
How has learning about the environment impacted your actions?
It has made me more conscious of the impact my actions have on the environment. I am more cautious of my interactions with nature ensuring that I leave no trace and do no harm. It has inspired me to do my part in saving this beautiful fragile planet we live in.
What can concerned athletes, scientists, artists or creatives do in the face of global challenges?
Educate themselves with the resources they have available and use their huge platforms to create change. They impact our day-to-day with the trends they create. By speaking from an informed perspective they could have a wide net of influence and could spark change critical to saving our planet.
How do you give back to your community or to the underserved?
I give back by volunteering with various non-profits within my area. Weekly creating care packages for people in need. In addition to donating food and clothing to my local pantries.
What are your materials and how do you think about them?
I use a Canon 90d with a Sigma 150-600 telephoto lens as well as a pair of Nocs. They feel like a part of me and can help bring me peace just by putting them on. They represent a future adventure.
At the end of the day, why do you do your craft? Are there goals ahead, a constant love for the process, or a yearning to learn more?
To promote the conservation of nature. For me, education is at the forefront. If I can introduce one species that makes my followers and friends stop and say this is cool and unique. Then it creates a moment where they can research and learn more about that species.
My hope is that by learning about that species, it will spark an interest in nature as a whole which will lead to them wanting to protect it because it’s something they know and enjoy.
A key ingredient to building a sustainable future?
Reestablishing a relationship between humans and nature. The more connected we are to nature, the more we care about the impact that we have on it. Without that connection, we will continue to destroy this beautiful planet because it does not directly impact us.
A book that shaped your life?
Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed
Who inspires you today?
My mom is my biggest inspiration. She came from a really humble beginning. Through hard work and perseverance, she was able to become a professor. She really was the one who ingrained into me that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. She constantly amazes me with all the things she learns on a whim. It really pushes me to grow and be dynamic.
Most sublime moment in nature?
There have been tons of moments that have been breathtaking and sublime. I could name a ton but visiting the Caroni Swamp in my home country of Trinidad and Tobago was pretty high up there.
We watched thousands of flamingos and scarlet ibis fly over as the sun set in a stunning display of light and color. It was special because I got to see my home country in a new light as well as because of the people who I shared the moment with. It is a moment I will remember for the rest of my life.
Who taught you something significant?
My friend Bonnie Dotson. She taught me the value in even the little things. She met me in a really low place emotionally and taught me how to see value within myself and in those small moments that we traditionally take for granted. She helped me to truly understand that there are good people in the world who care and show love even when there isn’t anything given in return.
Who has helped you along the way? How did they help?
@m.o.kae she actually gifted me my first camera and was the biggest catalyst for my growth. Constantly encouraging me and motivating me even when I didn’t feel good about my work. She is always down for an adventure or a new destination.
