But not forRobert Irwin.
From the time he was 13 years old, Irwin has been honing his craft.
We firstcovered your workwhen you were 13 years old, and now here you are, leaving your teens.
What do you think has been the biggest change in how you approach photography over the years?
First of all, thank you for being there close to the beginning of my photographic career.
I am delighted to chat with My Modern Met once again all these years later!
I think the biggest change in my approach to photography has been how story-driven I have become.
How do you think you’ve grown as a wildlife photographer in these last six years?
The most recent and rewarding of which was releasing myAustralia, By Robert Irwinphotography coffee table book.
What drives you to continue to be a voice and advocate for animals?
Seeing things like that makes one realize that inaction is not an option.
Moving into your 20s, what do you hope to accomplish?
After releasingAustralia, I plan on producing anAfricaandNorth Americabook.
Aside from your father, who else in the conservation world inspires you and why?
My parents will definitely always be my biggest inspiration.
They really were conservation pioneers and made conservation mainstream…no easy feat!
I could go on and on when it comes to conservationists that inspire me.
What’s the next big challenge that you would like to give yourself as a photographer?
I feel that when it comes to wildlife photography there is always a new challenge.
Gorillas and polar bears are high on the list for me right now.
What advice would you give to young photographers who are curious about shooting wildlife?
First of all, believe in yourself and have the courage to seize opportunity when it comes.
When I say a lot, I mean A LOT.
Photograph everything, make it more than just a hobby, but a lifestyle.
Never lose sight of the message you want to send with the pictures that you take.
Own a film camera at some point in your photographic career.
And spend one month only photographing with that camera, and one prime lens.
Lastly, and most importantly, take photos for you and nobody else.
