Renowned wildlife photographer Tim Flach to visit WWU May 13

Renowned wildlife and conservation photographer Tim Flach will present images of his work and facilitate a discussion of his craft at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13 in Miller Hall 138.

This event is free and open to the public.

Flach and WWU sociology professor Cameron Whitley will also discuss their research collaboration on how zoos can boost interest and empathy in their animals through portraiture.

Flach’s photography intentionally encourages the viewer to see the creatures he photographs as individuals with specific personalities.

Whitley said Flach explores using strategic anthropomorphism to evoke empathy and inspire environmental stewardship.

“Flach's work draws on art history, using color theory and visual perception techniques like left gaze bias to create emotional resonance,” Whitley said.

Whitley describes Flach as one of the top conservation photographers in the world; his work has appeared in “National Geographic,” “Creative Review,” “The New York Times,” “The Guardian” and the “The New Scientist,” among others.

Flach’s visit is being sponsored by the WWU Sociology Department, Provost’s Office, the Eden’s Hall Endowment, and the Department of Environmental Studies. 

Find out more about Cameron Whitley’s research at https://cameronwhitley.weebly.com/.

Frances Badgett covers communications for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Fine and Performing Arts. Reach out to her with story ideas at badgetf@wwu.edu.