Written by Kirk Mason
Kirk is currently studying the FdSc in Wildlife Education & Media (WEM) at Cornwall College Newquay.
Kirk uses his love of photography, combined with a fascination with arthropods and the tiny environments they occupy, to create stunning other-worldly macro images of the natural world.
In this blog post, Kirk details his motivations in capturing the beautiful intricacies and diversity of this miniature view.
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Repeating units of maroon coloured hexagons stacked together take the form of a quadrant- it is connected to a large leathery barrel like chassis. Its texture like cracked leather, is covered in dimples and quill-like hairs of varying lengths that support sporadically placed tiny yellow orbs.
Shimmering transparent scale-like structures rest upon the chassis, reflecting light and revealing prismatic colours that are fragmented by a dark lightning pattern giving resemblance to an organic stained-glass window.
Underneath the structure, several gangly, stilt-like appendages provide support. Microscopic hooks and hundreds of barbed fibres sit at the end of each stilt providing a firm foothold to all but the smoothest of surfaces.
These features belong to a fly, a creature most often chased around the house by would be amateur pest controllers!
The details of these incredible creatures often go unseen, due to the limitations of the human eye and our negative view of most invertebrates.
Through macro photography, we can surpass the limitations of the human perspective and observe details of these tiny creatures that would otherwise be impossible to – transforming seemingly mundane things into points of intrigue and appreciation.
So why is this important?
There is an issue with public perception of invertebrates, many people are frightened of them or see them as annoying pests. They are in fact one of the most influential groups of animals, many providing incredible utility in pollination, decomposition and pest control. We also benefit from the remarkable substances that they produce to create valuable medicines and materials.
Through influencing public opinion and cultivating appreciation, we may be able to create a sustainable future for generations to come.
This year I’m starting production on my own invertebrate video series with the aim of changing public perception of invertebrates and the habitats they occupy.
I believe that interpreting and communicating science is more important than ever due to current global events. WEM is an excellent degree with assignments that feel relevant and interesting and I intend to utilise the theories the course has taught me in my work, with the goal of inciting behavioural change.
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Find out more about Kirk Mason and his macro photography online at:Website
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