Breakout Speaker: NANPA Summit 2025
www.danmelephotography.com
Dan Mele is an underwater science photographer, filmmaker, and coral biologist in the U.S. Virgin Islands. With a background in marine science and technical diving, he is able to document parts of the ocean rarely seen.
Dan’s mission is to reshape perceptions of science and the scientists themselves, steering away from lab-centric stereotypes. His work amplifies research projects by engaging broader audiences, securing funding, and fostering collaborations with diverse science and conservation bodies.
Based at the University of the Virgin Islands, he documents local and visiting research teams, aiding island preservation and cultivating tomorrow’s scientific workforce. A TEDx speaker, Dan’s underwater videography has enriched Emmy-nominated and award-winning films. His images have also been used in several books, magazines, and online publications.
Documenting Research: Best Practices for Photographing Scientists
Friday, May 16 / 7:00am – 8:00am / Breakout Room – TBA
The field of conservation photography is growing, which means more photographers are collaborating with scientists and NGOs to tell their stories. Throughout my 10 years as a coral biologist and 8 years photographing researchers, I’ve repeatedly seen photographers miss crucial steps in planning a shoot with the researchers they work with. This often results in them getting in the way or hindering the research being conducted, which can make scientists less likely to want to work with photographers in the future.
My lecture will focus on how to prepare for such a shoot, how to communicate effectively with scientists, and how to capture the necessary shots to tell a compelling story without interfering with the research. I will share firsthand accounts of situations where I was unprepared and how it impacted the shoot, as well as instances where proper planning led to flawlessly executed shoots.
This lecture will provide the audience with an easy-to-follow set of guidelines to improve how they plan and execute photo shoots with scientists.