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2023 EDITION

Harmonizing Technology: Rescuing Endangered Echoes

Story by Makoto Suzuki




Harmonizing Technology: Rescuing Endangered Echoes



"Harmonizing Technology: Rescuing Endangered Echoes," led by Makoto Suzuki from Japan, reinvents the narrative of wildlife conservation through the lens of technological intervention. In a time when the synergy of man, nature, and machine is not just a novelty but a necessity, Makoto's project focuses on the harmony possible between these often conflicting elements.

Amid the relentless drumming of the human desire for progress, technology emerges as an unconventional hero in this deeply intimate narrative of wildlife conservation. Makoto intertwines the precise language of technology with the unpredictable rhythms of nature to generate a common thread: how our creations can assist in saving creations beyond ourselves. Drones are not merely machines here, but the eyes in the sky for park rangers. Tracking collars are not just electronic devices, but lifelines extending our reach to protect the lives that can't cry for help.

In this thrilling photojournalism project, Makoto also pays homage to the individuals who breathe life into this technology, the humans behind the machines who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of preservation. These intimate portraits compel us to consider our own role and responsibility in this collective endeavor.

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Makoto Suzuki

About the photographer

Born and raised in the mountainous landscapes of Nagano, Japan, Makoto Suzuki has long been captivated by the harmonious relationship between humans, technology, and nature. The precision of technology, the dynamism of nature, and the resilience of humanity have always been sources of inspiration for his artistic narrative.

As a child, Makoto found solace in the wild. He nurtured a profound respect for the flora and fauna that surrounded his home, shaping his world view. His inherent fascination with wildlife was mirrored in his love for technology. Growing up in a family of engineers, he marveled at the exactitude and the capability of technological creations. He understood the potency of technology and believed in its capacity to drive meaningful change.

Makoto's early photography efforts were guided by his dual interests. His local landscape provided him with myriad opportunities to explore and capture the mystical beauty of Japan's wilderness through his lens. He was intrigued by the challenges wildlife faced, especially the ones endangered and threatened due to the continuous onslaught of urbanization and human interference.

He studied visual arts at the prestigious Tokyo University of the Arts, further honing his photographic skills and theoretical understanding. After graduating, he worked as a technology journalist, reporting on innovations that aimed to make human life easier. However, he felt a persistent tug at his heartstrings to combine his passion for wildlife and technology and use his skills to raise awareness about the global plight of endangered species.

He embarked on the journey of photojournalism, focusing on wildlife conservation. His photos began to weave narratives about endangered species and their struggles, highlighting the role of technology as a key protagonist in their survival story. His unique approach to storytelling, characterized by its intimate representation of human effort, the fragility of wildlife, and the boldness of technology, was met with international acclaim. He quickly established himself as a significant voice in wildlife conservation photography.

Today, Makoto Suzuki is revered globally for his groundbreaking work. His photographs have graced the pages of notable publications and have been exhibited in galleries worldwide. His work not only amplifies the unsung narratives of endangered species and the unseen efforts of conservationists but also serves as a stark reminder of the role technology can play in shaping a sustainable future. As he continues to document and explore the beautiful chaos of wildlife conservation efforts, his imagery continues to inspire and challenge our perspectives on how we can harmonize with the natural world.



Photos in this series

"Eye in the Sky": The first photograph captures a drone being launched into a breathtakingly expansive sky by a park ranger, the sun low and casting long shadows. The dynamic upward motion of the drone is accentuated by the low-angle shot, emphasizing the scale of the mission. "The Lifeline": A close-up shot of a tracking collar being fixed onto an endangered snow leopard, its piercing blue eyes directly meeting the camera. The composition accentuates the contrast between the cold metal of the collar and the soft fur, symbolizing the uneasy union of technology and wildlife. "Whispers of the Wild": An infrared camera is seen capturing the movement of a herd of elephants at night, their bodies glowing against the dark. The clever use of natural moonlight and infrared technology creates an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere, enhancing the viewer's sense of intrusion into a private world. "Command Center": A wide-angle shot of a control room where rangers monitor the various technological devices deployed in the field. Screens glow in the semi-darkness, maps are spread out, and the intensity of focus is palpable, conveying the sheer magnitude of the task at hand. "Protectors of Progress": A portrait of a group of rangers, their faces illuminated by the soft glow from a computer screen. Their expressions are a mix of determination and hope. The shot, taken from a slightly lower perspective, paints them as heroes under the weight of their mission. "Harmony": The final image captures a tranquil moment where a ranger, in the foreground, observes a pack of wolves through binoculars, a drone hovering subtly in the distance. The evening light gently floods the scene, encapsulating the harmonious coexistence of man, machine, and nature.