Joshua Asel’s Heartfelt Auction for Conservation
Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking breathtaking images it’s about telling stories that inspire change. As a wildlife conservation photographer who has spent over a decade capturing the beauty of the natural world and advocating for its protection, Joshua Asel embodies this mission. Now, as a board member of the Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County, he’s channeling his passion into something extraordinary. By partnering with seven National Geographic photographers, Asel has helped create an auction featuring stunning Epic Prints - all to raise much-needed funds for a new rescue facility.
Giving Birds a Second Chance
For years, the Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County has been a haven for injured and orphaned birds, caring for thousands of feathered friends each year from across Northern California. But the center (currently housed in a repurposed World War II bunker) is struggling to keep up with demand. With plans for a modernized facility in the works, the team is pushing toward their ambitious $15 million fundraising goal to provide the best care possible for these incredible creatures.
A Community of Storytellers Comes Together
Knowing the power of striking imagery, Asel reached out to his fellow conservation photographers - many of whom contribute to National Geographic - to help make this auction unforgettable. Their generosity was overwhelming. Seven world-class photographers stepped up to donate their work, elevating the event into something truly special. More than just an auction, this became a global effort to support wildlife conservation.
The Talented National Geographic Photographers Behind the Auction
Each of these celebrated photographers has dedicated their career to showcasing the wonders of nature and the importance of protecting it:
JEN GUYTON is a National Geographic Explorer, 2019 Fulbright-National Geographic Digital Storytelling Fellow in Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique, and a Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers. Her photos have been published in National Geographic, the New York Times, Smithsonian Magazine, BBC Wildlife Magazine, Audubon Magazine, and others.
MELISSA GROO is a Sony Artisan of Imagery, an Associate Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers, advisor to the National Audubon Society on photography content and ethics, and contributing editor to Audubon magazine.
She’s a leading voice and consultant on ethics in wildlife photography. Along with bird expert Kenn Kaufman, she created National Audubon Society’s landmark Guide to Ethical Bird Photography and Videography.
PETER MATHER'S photo stories revolve around life in the North, with a focus on wildlife, environment, and community culture. He is a fellow with the International League of Conservation photographers and has worked with National Geographic, the New York Times, Smithsonian, Audubon, Canadian Geographic, and Geo magazine on telling important wildlife stories from the North.
KILIII YUYAN is a photographer committed to telling stories that help humanity understand itself and its relationship to mother earth. In 2023, Kiliii received one of National Geographic's top honors, the Eliza Scidmore Award for Outstanding Storytelling, and was named one of PDN's top 30 photographers in 2019. He contributes to publications including TIME, Vogue, and WIRED. Kiliii is currently on speaking tour in 2024 with National Geographic Live.
Conservation photographer and Filmmaker, KRISTI ODOM, has worked in some of the earth's most remote locations to help document stories that will help protect our planet's biodiversity. She is an internationally awarded photographer, an associate fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, a Nikon Ambassador and a motivational speaker.
AISHWARYA SRIDHAR is an international award-winning wildlife photographer and filmmaker. Founder of Bambi Films, she aims to use the power of visual medium to create positive conservation impact. She has travelled widely, documenting unique stories of India’s rare and endangered species. An Emerging Fellow at the International League of Conservation Photographers, she has been working towards policy protection for wetlands using the visual medium.
PAUL HILTON is a Hong Kong-based photojournalist and wildlife trade consultant who focuses on global environmental and conservation issues and endeavors to bring about urgent change in the way we treat our surroundings. Presently, he is working on the palm oil issue: documenting deforestation, land clearing, and the wildlife trade in Sumatra’s Leuser Eco-system, Indonesia. He’s a member of the prestigious International League of Conservation Photographers and has received numerous awards for his conservation photography.
The Magic of Epic Prints
To make these images truly shine, Asel knew they needed to be presented in a way that would do them justice. That’s where Bay Photo’s Epic Prints came in.
“I chose Epic Prints because they always make people gasp when they emerge from the box,” Asel shares. “With their stunning detail at 610dpi and incredible color range, they never fail to impress.” - Josh Asel
When the prints arrived, the impact was immediate. “It was breathtaking to see these works of art in person,” Asel recalls. “This collaboration of internationally renowned artists for a local cause was something truly special. I knew these prints would take the auction to the next level.”
A Call to Action for Fellow Photographers
For photographers who are passionate about nature, conservation, and storytelling, Asel has one heartfelt message: Dream big.
“You might hear it all the time, but big aspirations lead to big results. Whether it's improving your photography, dedicating yourself to conservation, or putting together your first solo gallery - find your wonder and chase it to the ends of the Earth. And please, support local wildlife rescue organizations. They need you.” - Josh Asel
This auction is proof that photography isn’t just about creating beautiful images... It’s about making a difference. Through powerful storytelling and community support, Asel’s initiative shows how art and conservation can come together to protect our planet, one image at a time.
Special Thanks to Joshua Asel
Josh Asel appreciates the intersection of art, conservation, and science as a powerful force for protecting wildlife and natural ecosystems. Through photography, he creates articles, portfolios, and videos that support the objectives of researchers, activists, and Indigenous communities in achieving conservation successes. His work also aims to raise public awareness and deepen understanding of the vital role wildlife plays in sustaining ecosystems worldwide. To learn more about Josh and view more of his work, visit https://www.joshasel.com/.
Expires 3/3/2025