Closer to Nature Photography

Paul G. Johnson ~ Photographer, Naturalist, Biologist

Photographic Specialties

Paul using his first camera.

Insects
- Butterflies
- Dragonflies
- Moths
Amphibians
Reptiles
Wildflowers
Macrophotography
Habitats
San Benito County
Pinnacles Nat. Mon.
Carrizo Plain

Visit Paul's
Flickr Gallery

As a child I was enamored with reptiles, amphibians, and insects. This fascination has followed me into adulthood, influencing my studies, career, and favorite pastime. I have a background in Zoology and work as a Wildlife Biologist at Pinnacles National Monument in California. Living and working in National Parks since 1994 has given me a great opportunity to do what I love best, to immerse myself in nature.

When I was given my first SLR camera in 1992, it opened up a new way of seeing nature and of sharing my observations with the rest of the world. I especially enjoy getting down on the level of tiny wildlife, using macrophotography to explore their world, revealing details that might otherwise go unnoticed and unappreciated by humankind.

Currently my preferred equipment consists of a Canon 5D II digital SLR with the Canon 70-200mm f/4 IS lens plus extension tubes. I strive to capture wildlife undisturbed under natural lighting conditions. For nocturnal close-up work where flash is required, I use a Canon 100mm macro lens with the Canon MR 14EX macro ring lite.

Visit my Flickr gallery to see examples of my photography.