Anand Varma, a biologist by training and now a well-known photographer, has established WonderLab in Berkeley, California. WonderLab is a physical space where Varma will explore and develop innovative storytelling techniques. Through his work, Varma aims to create images and videos that challenge our understanding of the hidden world. You can learn more about Anand Varma’s journey as a National Geographic Explorer here.
“When I decided to pursue photography, I thought I had to abandon my childhood dream of becoming a scientist,” says Varma. “As I began to document the life cycles of bees, bats, jellyfish, and other insects I realized that science and photography are not mutually exclusive efforts. Science provides structured systems for observing the world while photography gives us tools for extending our visual perception.”
Within WonderLab, Anand will create innovative photography and filmmaking techniques that capture hidden or often unnoticed details and patterns. This will be showcased in his upcoming project: Metamorphosis, which focuses on visualizing the lifecycle.
“Wonder expands and challenges our understanding of the world,” says Varma. “Wonder leaves people ready to explore the world with fresh eyes. Evoking this feeling is the central goal of my work. With WonderLab, I can harness the power of wonder to develop novel ways of telling stories about the natural world.“
WonderLab also functions as an incubator for ideas and talent by providing mentorship and educational opportunities for aspiring scientists and storytellers to enhance their skills in visual communication.
Recently, Anand conducted a technical and immersive storytelling training session with the Second Assistant cohort of storytelling Explorers. During the session, he showcased his methodology for creating captivating visuals and encouraged the Explorers to experiment with various photography techniques.
In addition, the National Geographic Society has launched a digital collection of online educational resources inspired by Anand’s work. This collection, available at this link, encourages educators and young people to adopt the mindset of an Explorer, which includes traits such as curiosity, empathy, empowerment, problem-solving, and storytelling.
Anand and the National Geographic Society are dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of our world that are often hidden in plain sight. They demonstrate how the combination of science and compelling visual storytelling fuels curiosity and fosters a deeper connection with our natural world.
“A compelling photograph can change us, it can challenge assumptions, make room for new ideas, and expand our curiosity,” says Kaitlin Yarnall, Chief Storytelling Officer at National Geographic Society. “Through WonderLab and Anand’s expertise, we can use stunning visuals to expand the way we see the world and evoke wonder and awe for the overlooked things around us.“
Additionally, today, September 26, 2023, National Geographic Books published Anand’s book, “Invisible Wonders: Photographs of the Hidden World.” Anand guides readers through an eye-popping collection of fascinating images—his own and those of many others—that reveal patterns and details within nature unseen by the naked eye but revealed by the photographer.
To learn more about Anand and WonderLab visit www.natgeo.org/wonderlab
