Category Archives: Nature Photography

Sign up for this macro photography walk amidst nature this weekend in Mumbai

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© Provided by Mid-Day


‘A picture is worth a thousand words’ might sound like an essay topic for a fifth grader, but the phrase holds merit especially when nature is the subject matter. Pictures prove essential in efforts to convey the conditions of nature and the importance of nature conservation to the world. Keeping this in mind, VIBGYOR, a photography group will lead a photo walk this Sunday — Amidst Nature at Maharashtra Nature Park.

Tricolour pied-flat butterfly. Pic Courtesy/Yuwaraj Gurjar

Indraneel Mukherjee, founder, VIBGYOR, shares that the photo walk is part of a larger project associated with a two-day conference on nature conservation by the Australian Centre for Sustainable Development Research and Innovation (ACSDRI) this weekend. “Every year, Dr Kuntal Goswami, founder, ACSDRI, launches a magazine, Blue Planet. Noting his need for exclusive and good photographs, I got associated with the project. We conducted annual online photography sessions with contests, where the winning images were featured in the magazine. This time, we  wanted to organise more sessions that would facilitate a good lead  up into the conference and so, we decided to select winners on the spot,” the founder explains.

Indraneel Mukherjee

The two-hour photography session will be followed by a panel discussion about nature conservation. Yuwaraj Gurjar, an acclaimed photographer, will mentor the participants during the walk. Gurjar mentions that the theme of the walk, Macro Photography will focus on flowers and insects like butterflies, bees and ants. “We will guide participants to take macro images with their mobiles, cameras as well as share tips on how to capture images on the field,” he says.

He summarises the aim of the photo walk, “Normally, everyone speaks about bigger fauna including tigers and elephants. But few are aware of smaller fauna like damselflies. The walk will cover such minute subjects, and explain why they are so integral in the web of life, and how they are connected to larger fauna as well as human beings.”

On: March 5; 7 am onwards 

At: Maharashtra Nature Park Society, Sion

Log on to: infovibgyor.com

Call: 9920773284

Cost: Rs 249

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Snowy Saddleback Mountain In Between Storms: Photo Of The Day

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© Mike Safranski Photography


RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — With the barrage of winter storms pounding the Southern California region through the week, dense cloud coverage has been obscuring the white-tops of Saddleback Mountain.

Trabuco Canyon resident Mike Safranski shot this stunning photo of the snow-packed Saddleback Mountain from Trabuco Highlands.

Thank you for sharing your photo with Patch, Mike!

If you have an awesome photo of nature, breath-taking scenery, kids caught being kids, a pet doing something funny, or something unusual you happen to catch with your camera, we’d love to feature it on Patch.

We’re looking for high-resolution images that reflect the beauty and fun that is Orange County, and that show off your unique talents.

Email photo submissions to [email protected].

The article Snowy Saddleback Mountain In Between Storms: Photo Of The Day appeared first on Rancho Santa Margarita Patch.

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A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN NATURE

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I was excited to drive our brand-new car on a long trip on a bright Sunday morning. We left for Srirangapatna at eight in the morning on February 4th, 2023. The two-hour drive down the six-lane Bengaluru-Mysore motorway was a joy.

As a nature admirer, I’ve wanted to visit the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary since I was a small kid, but every time we planned to go, it kept being pushed back. A paradise for bird watchers, the local terrain and foliage serve as a habitat for a variety of bird species. Our favorite activities while visiting this location were bird viewing, boating, and nature photography. It was a break from Bengaluru traffic and our tedious, stressful jobs.

The colorful species of birds that live on the banks of the Kaveri River delighted us as we were out on the water. The most prominent ones were the Woolly-necked Stork, Black-headed Ibis, Common Spoonbill, Woodpecker, Asian Openbill Stork, and Painted Stork. The Bonnet Macaque, Flying Fox, Indian Grey Mongoose, and Crocodile are just a few of the many mammals and reptiles that may be found in this hotspot of biodiversity. In the lap of nature, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is the ideal spot to unwind. This first trip of the year was the most memorable, allowing us to enjoy the stunning landscapes.



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Nature Nova Scotia calls for second look at proposed timber cuts on eastern Crown land

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Donna Crossland is worried that not enough is changing in the woods.

The forest ecologist and long-time advocate for sustainable forestry said in a recent interview that she is alarmed by the large volume of proposed timber harvesting on Crown in eastern Nova Scotia.

Using the provincial government’s map viewer for potential harvests, Crossland totalled up about 1,500 hectares of proposed cuts in the last five months that she says are “functionally clearcuts.” Another 850 hectares are proposed as salvage cuts in areas with blowdowns created by Hurricane Fiona.

“This is not ecological forestry,” Crossland said in an interview.

“This is not what was the outcome from the independent forest review by Bill Lahey. This is not OK.”

Lahey, the president of the University of King’s College, authored a review of forestry practices in the province in 2018 that called for a drastic reduction in clearcuts and management of the woods that prioritizes ecological practices.



Donna Crossland, seen in this file photo from 2022, is vice-president of Nature Nova Scotia.


© Phlis McGregor/CBC
Donna Crossland, seen in this file photo from 2022, is vice-president of Nature Nova Scotia.

In her capacity as vice-president of Nature Nova Scotia, Crossland recently penned a letter to Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton calling on him to halt the proposed cuts in eastern Nova Scotia from going ahead until each parcel can be reviewed through an ecological lens.

“We need to stop and really examine these cuts more closely,” she said. “Lahey said put ecological considerations first and foremost.”

Lahey’s report called for Crown land to be divided into a so-called triad, where the largest portion, about 55 per cent, is reserved for light-touch forestry. Thirty-five per cent would be reserved for conservation and protection and is off limits to all forestry activity, while 10 per cent is reserved for high-intensity forestry.

Crossland is worried that too much emphasis is being placed on high-intensity forestry at the expense of the other legs of the triad. A proposed cut of 340 hectares near Lake Ainslie in Cape Breton is particularly troubling for Crossland because she said the Natural Resources Department has mischaracterized the nature of the land.



Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton says he has faith in the public comment period to raise concerns related to proposed forestry harvests.


© CBC
Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton says he has faith in the public comment period to raise concerns related to proposed forestry harvests.

Areas need to be properly assessed, in person, by biologists before any cuts are approved, she said. The department too often relies on information that doesn’t accurately reflect what’s happening on the ground, said Crossland.

That’s meant that species at risk can be overlooked. Such was the case in the Annapolis Valley where citizen scientists found the presence of rare lichen at the site of a proposed cut, resulting in changes to the harvest plan.

For his part, Rushton said that example proves the system works.

While he acknowledges his department does not have the resources for someone to inspect every piece of land in real time, Rushton said he has faith in the system and that feedback received during the public comment period on proposed cuts is reviewed and taken seriously.

Harvests not guaranteed

That’s what happened near Bridgewater last year when a proposal to log was indefinitely delayed because it was shown to be in an area that included the endangered Atlantic whitefish.

“We may find out through the investigation from our department that this is not a site that needs to be cut,” Rushton said in an interview.

“Just because the application comes in does not mean that it’s going to get a harvest.”

The minister and Crossland are of different minds when it comes to the need for salvage cuts in areas affected by Hurricane Fiona.

Dealing with blowdown

While Rushton said the wood needs to be removed while it is still of value and to prevent potential forest fires, Crossland said such concerns are overstated because of rapid decay in Nova Scotia’s humid climate. The removal of so much wood from Crown land also serves to depress values of wood on private lands, said Crossland.

Leaving some of that blowdown in the woods creates an opportunity to teach ecological forestry practices and it can also nourish depleted soil, and create hummocks and hollow terrain which helps with water retention and diversification of the forest floor topography, she said.

Rushton said he knows people are concerned that the recommendations of the Lahey report are taking longer to implement than hoped, but he said he thinks his government has made good progress since being elected in 2021. Ruston said he remains committed to finishing the work by 2025, as called for in his mandate letter.

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A Renowned Doctor Explains Green Micro-Breaks And Nature’s Importance For Our Health

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In regards to evolution, our brains have not changed very much since pre-historic times when we were hunters and gatherers out in the wild nature. Today, however, most of us live in an urban setting and are dependent on digitalization.

„In order to stimulate our pre-historic brains and to support healthy minds and habits in this new world order, we therefore need to go out into nature even if for only green “micro-breaks”.“ says Dr. Anna Erat, Harvard-trained Doctor and Medical Director for Prevention at Switzerland’s renowned private Hospital Group Hirslanden.

I’ve met with Dr. Erat in her hometown in Zurich, Switzerland after starting our conversation during the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year, at an Open Forum panel discussion „Nature Heals“, which was moderated by her.

Dr. Erat, how can Nature heal humanity?

Dr. Erat: Nature provides remedies to heal and to protect us from harmful microbes and diseases. Take aspirin as an example, a natural remedy turned into a pharmaceutical milestone. Already the ancient Egyptians used willow tree leaves and bark that contained the active ingredient of aspirin to relieve fever and pain. Other examples include artemisinin and quinine against malaria, both which are derived from plants.

On a most fundamental level, however, nature clearly provides us with nutrients and antioxidants that allow us to heal and survive. The body’s trillions of cells face great threats from lack of food and due to chemicals – such as free radicals – which are generated when turning food into energy during exercise, or when the body is exposed to air pollution and sunlight. In high quantities, free radicals damage cells and genetic material. Fortunately, nature provides us with nutrients and antioxidants that neutralize these free radicals and that support DNA repair mechanisms which allow us to heal. The most familiar ones are vitamin C, flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin E, along with the minerals like selenium and manganese.

Why is nature so important for our well-being and what are the medical benefits of being in Nature?

Most of us know firsthand that spending time in nature can make us feel better. This isn’t just a placebo effect. Years of research show that seeing vegetation, water, light, and animals is linked with many psychological benefits. We know that people who live outside cities, for instance, are less likely to experience mental distress. Similarly, small micro-breaks in nature or urban green areas are highly beneficial for stress reduction and general mental well-being. Indeed, we do need to involve nature in our daily lives for mental health and stress reduction.

But the positive effects are not only seen in mental health. Indeed 30 to 50% of all cancers – for instance – are due to lifestyle factors and risk factors such as environmental pollution, poor sanitation and water pollution as well lack of exercise among others. In fact, inactivity is regarded one of the biggest public health problems in the 21st century and is a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes. Hence, we have to build living spaces that allow daily exercise and promote healthy habits and walkability. Furthermore, we need to focus on circular economy in urban design that allows proper waste management, recycling and reuse which ultimately also leads to less waste and clean air and water.

What can/should we all learn from Nature?

Nature depends on self-organization, which allows an organism to survive through self-repair through a process where some form of overall order arises from local interactions between parts of an initially disordered system. Examples of self-organization in nature include crystallization, thermal convection of fluids, chemical oscillation, animal swarming, neural circuits. Similarly, economic systems and society also depend on individuals taking responsibility and action for common good and impact on a larger scale. As self-organization is the emergence of pattern and order in a system by internal processes, rather than external constraints or forces, each individual action local interactions between individuals matters when it comes to nature and sustainability. In short, we cannot solely depend on policies and governments to guide the path to health nature and sustainability. Each individual has to take responsibility as well. President John F. Kennedy’s famous quote by during his inaugural speech resonates here more than ever: “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

How can we help Nature heal?

It is well known that more than 50% of the world population lives in cities and it is projected that up to 80% of the entire world population will live in an urban setting by 2060. Hence, we should ask ourselves how we can we shape urban communities and our environment so that cities are built for humans, animals (including insects) and plants and not the other way around. The question how we can allow people to live in rural environments and still be able to have modern professions and purposeful social interactions is equally important. How can we foster healthy living spaces in environments both in cities and in rural areas alike?

Green roofs are an increasingly common way of introducing more nature into cities and normally consist of low-growing plants in light-weight constructions such as walls or ceilings. Yet, there is also an acute need to balance economic development and environmental sustainability. This entails a drastic shift from a linear “take, make and waste mentality”. In regard to urban planning, Singapore offers a great example of circular economy as an integral part of the city’s green plan and zero waste masterplan. Other countries such as Finland have also adopted this approach of sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing and recycling, which is partially driven by resource scarcity. Through this kind of circular approach, we help nature heal and vice versa.

Through digitalization, and with the pandemic catalyzing remote work and home office, an increasing share of the work force can work from anywhere in the world. Today, qualified professionals can therefore also live outside cities in nature while building careers and contributing to their organization’s success. Remote and flexible working conditions therefore clearly mitigate excessive urban growth and its associated threats.

What are your most important outtakes from the „Nature Heals“ panel in Davos?

Apart from resource management – which includes circular economy and sustainable urbanization – we also how to protecting rural areas, indigenous cultures and biodiversity. The state of nature and health of humans are highly interdependent and interlinked. Hence, in order to allow nature to heal, we must support biodiversity and protect our environment from pollution such as micro-plastics and contaminated water and from climate change. The loss in biodiversity, for instance, diminishes the supplies of raw materials for drug discovery and biotechnology.

Fortunately, planetary health classes are increasingly being integrated in the undergraduate and graduate curriculum at universities such as Sunway University in Malaysia. Similarly, executive managers are being taught about the importance of health in management. Indeed, several novel emerging programs for life-long learning and second-half-of-life careers at Harvard, Oxford and St. Gallen are greatly emphasizing health in leadership and governance. Finally, healthy living and exercise classes are also becoming an integral part of early childhood education. In other words, rethinking and positively impacting nature and health are taking place on all levels of society at all ages.

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It’s a new season in Harford. Eden Mill Nature Center’s Owl Prowl and preschool nature series launch spring programs on Friday

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The environs of Eden Mill Nature Center in Pylesville are home to all sorts of woodland creatures. Explore the trails to see deer, fox and rabbit. Catch a glimpse of beavers and turtles near Big Branch and Deer creeks. Learn more about the wildlife at the nature center through a variety of free and paid programs on topics like beehives, bird banding and bats.


© Nicole Munchel | Aegis staff/Baltimore Sun/TNS
The environs of Eden Mill Nature Center in Pylesville are home to all sorts of woodland creatures. Explore the trails to see deer, fox and rabbit. Catch a glimpse of beavers and turtles near Big Branch and Deer creeks. Learn more about the wildlife at the nature center through a variety of free and paid programs on topics like beehives, bird banding and bats.

The Eden Mill Nature Center is ready to kick off its spring programming with its first event of the season on Friday, the Owl Prowl.

Visitors will search the woods of Eden Mill to find Maryland’s native owls from 6-7:30 p.m. Children ages 8 and over are invited to attend, but children ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Other dates are March 10-11 from 6-7:30 p.m.; March 31 and April 1 from 7:30-9 p.m.; and April 14-15 from 8-9:30 p.m. The fee is $12 per member each date and $14 per non-member each date.

The preschool nature series starts on March 8 and will be held on Wednesdays from 9:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m. or 11 a.m.-12 p.m., including nature games and activities, a hike, storytime and crafts. Children that are 2-5 years old must be with an adult.

Other dates for the series are April 5, 19 and 26, as well as May 3, 10, 17 and 24. The fee is $9 per member each date and $11 per non-member each date.

Hunting the Haunted, a ghost story event, will be held on April 22, weather permitting, from 7:30-10 p.m. Children 10 and over can attend but all minors must be accompanied by an adult. The fee is $12 per member each date and $17 per non-member each date.

Join Frank Marsden for a visual presentation, “30 years of Wildlife Observation and Photography at Eden Mill,” on March 29 from 6:30-8 p.m. Marsden has spent 30 years at Eden Mill observing, photographing and teaching about its wildlife. He will share the stories behind the photographs and interesting facts about the critters of Eden Mill. This presentation is for ages 12 and over. There is no fee to attend.

The center is located at 1617 Eden Mill Road in Pylesville.

For a complete list of Eden Mill’s spring programs or to register, visit edenmill.org. Pre-registration is required 24 hours in advance. Weekend program registration closes at 12 p.m. on the prior Friday.

Questions can be emailed to [email protected].

©2023 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Brightseed Proclaims 2023 the Year of the Bioactivist as Consumer Interest in Nature-Derived Solutions Surges

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The company is debuting a certified organic version of its Bio 01 fiber ingredient for gut health

Brightseed, the bioactives company, released new research today showing there is a significant subset of consumers who are engaged in a new horizon of science-based, natural solutions for health: bioactives.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230228005455/en/

A Brightseed survey of U.S. adults uncovered a significant subset of consumers who are engaged in a new horizon of science-based, natural solutions for health: bioactives. More than a quarter of respondents were identified as “bioactivists,” consumers who believe “food can be as powerful as medicine” and would pay a premium for novel bioactive health solutions. (Photo: Business Wire)

Bioactives are compounds that promote growth found in plants, fungi, and microbes that have the potential to reshape the nutraceutical industry and help consumers achieve their health goals. Brightseed’s study identified a new consumer segment of “Bioactivists” (27 percent of adults) who believe “food can be as powerful as medicine” and would pay a premium for novel bioactive health solutions. This finding presents a new opportunity for functional food and beverage brands to innovate products aimed at this early adopter segment. Access Brightseed’s infographic detailing the survey findings here.

The Bioactivist Consumer

In 2022, Brightseed surveyed more than 2,800 U.S. adults to explore consumer understanding and awareness of bioactive compounds and their potential for human health. The research also measured sentiment, interest, and knowledge of health and nutrition, which is where the Bioactivist segment emerged – a new category of consumer representing more than a quarter of U.S. adults.

While 62 percent of general consumers reported they are interested in learning more about bioactives, Bioactivists – highly motivated, health-conscious consumers who prioritize nutrition as a proactive health measure – were significantly more engaged. In addition, half of Bioactivists reported they are dissatisfied with the market’s current natural solutions for health, and more than half (52 percent) said they would pay more for bioactive-containing products.

“Bioactivists are seeking proactive and preventative health solutions in a very targeted manner, and their heightened awareness on health topics has a direct impact on their evaluation of products and purchasing behavior,” Brightseed’s VP of Marketing Michelle Masek said. “Our findings show these Bioactivist consumers are hungry to find bioactives on the labels of their trusted brands.”

Opportunity for Functional Food & Beverage Brands

Brightseed’s findings echo industry research on how consumers are zeroing in on health as a key motivating factor driving the rise of organic, clean label, and functional food and beverage categories. Recent natural product industry analysis confirms there has been a “fundamental shift” in the consumer’s definition of healthy, where more shoppers today are interested in “the healthy components within” versus removal of the “bad,” like trans fats and added sugars.

As Brightseed’s Forager® A.I. technology connects these plant compounds and human biology, and more clinical research on bioactive compounds validates their health benefits, academics and industry leaders are investigating bioactives’ contribution in health and nutrition and considering their role in dietary recommendations.

“Health-conscious consumers are trained to seek out products containing certain label claims, vitamins, minerals, or classes of antioxidants, but our findings show that there’s a huge unmet opportunity to address the needs of Bioactivists who are drilling deeper in the science,” Brightseed’s VP of Bioactives Alina Slotnik said. “Bioactive ingredients are the next generation of health ingredients and a novel way to deliver differentiated benefits.”

Brighteed Bio 01 Organic Debuts at Natural Products Expo West

Brightseed is debuting a new certified organic version of Brightseed Bio 01 to better align with Bioactivists’ desires at Natural Products Expo West booth 4379, March 7-11.

Brightseed Bio 01 is a novel hemp fiber ingredient for gut health formulated for use in functional foods, beverages, and supplements. Derived from upcycled hemp hulls and formulated to optimize bioactive content, Brightseed Bio 01 is the only dietary fiber on the market that contains two bioactive compounds, NCT and NFT, that show promise to support gut barrier integrity in preclinical studies.

The new certified organic version of Brightseed Bio 01 can be easily integrated into cereals, granolas, nutrition bars, and functional beverages, providing organic product manufacturers a new option to deliver the benefits of dietary fiber to their consumers.

About Brightseed

Brightseed is a pioneer in biosciences and artificial intelligence (A.I.) that illuminates nature to restore human health. Brightseed’s proprietary A.I., Forager®, accelerates bioactive discovery, biological validation and ingredient formulation from years to months, rapidly revealing new connections between nature and humanity. Through Forager® and clinical evaluation, Brightseed partners with organizations across the consumer health continuum to offer insight into the world of bioactives and health solutions. Visit www.brightseedbio.com to learn more.

Sources: Online Surveys by AYTM, Adults 18+, US Census Representative; Brightseed Health & Nutrition Survey 2022, n=2,000 – Brightseed Bio 01 Concept Test 2022, n=800

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10 Movies That Will Make You Appreciate Nature

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© Provided by MovieWeb


Imagine this: You’re sitting in a dark, air-conditioned theater, surrounded by strangers, munching on popcorn, and sipping on a cold drink. The lights dim, the movie starts, and suddenly you’re transported to another world. You’re witnessing breathtaking landscapes, marveling at majestic creatures, and feeling the thrill of adventure. That’s the power of movies – they can take us on a journey, both literally and metaphorically, and make us appreciate the world in a whole new way.

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of nature is its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and amazement in us. The sheer scale and diversity of the natural world is mind-boggling, and it’s hard not to feel small and insignificant when confronted with its beauty. From soaring mountains to cascading waterfalls, from dense forests to sprawling deserts, nature has it all, and it’s no wonder that filmmakers often use it as a backdrop to tell their stories.

Related: The Very Best Cinematography in Black and White Horror Movies

Cinematography is the art of capturing moving images on camera, and it’s an essential element of filmmaking. Good cinematography can transport us to another world, evoke emotions, and even change the way we see things. When it comes to movies that make you appreciate nature, cinematography plays a crucial role. From sweeping aerial shots to close-ups of tiny creatures, from time-lapse sequences to slow-motion footage, the way nature is captured on film can be as stunning as the subject itself.

Sometimes, the cinematography can be so beautiful that it makes you wonder how you’ve never noticed the world around you before. You might find yourself looking at a flower or a tree in a new way, noticing details you’ve never seen before. You might feel a newfound appreciation for the natural world and a desire to explore it more. That’s the power of movies that make you appreciate nature – they can inspire us to look at the world with fresh eyes and a sense of wonder.

In this list, we’ll take a look at some of the best movies that make you appreciate nature. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for some cinematic inspiration, these films are sure to take your breath away. Get ready to explore the natural world like never before!

The Tree of Life (2011)

The Tree of Life is not your typical nature movie. Instead of using nature as a backdrop, it explores the relationship between nature and spirituality, and how the two are intertwined. The film follows the lives of a family in 1950s Texas, with a focus on the relationship between a father and his two sons. But the film also delves into the origins of the universe, the evolution of life on Earth, and the meaning of existence.

Visually, the film is a work of art. Director Terrence Malick uses stunning cinematography to capture the beauty of nature, from the grandeur of the cosmos to the intricacies of a butterfly’s wings. The film also features a powerful score and a stellar cast, including Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain. The Tree of Life is a philosophical and emotional journey that will make you appreciate the complexity and beauty of the natural world.

A Good Year (2006)

A Good Year may not be the first film that comes to mind when you think of nature movies, but it’s a charming and visually stunning film that celebrates the beauty of the French countryside. The film follows a successful London banker who inherits a vineyard in Provence and decides to leave his city life behind to live there. As he learns to appreciate the simple pleasures of life and reconnects with his past, he also falls in love with a local woman.

The film features gorgeous shots of the vineyard and the surrounding landscapes, including the lavender fields of Provence. The natural elements, such as the sun-drenched hills and the rustic stone houses, are as much characters in the story as the human ones. The film also boasts a great soundtrack and a delightful performance by Russell Crowe. A Good Year is a feel-good movie that will make you want to pack your bags and move to the French countryside.

The Sound of Music (1965)

If you’re looking for a classic movie that celebrates the beauty of nature, look no further than The Sound of Music. This timeless musical tells the story of a nun-turned-governess who falls in love with the widowed father of seven children in Austria. The movie features stunning scenery of the Austrian Alps, where the family often goes on hikes and picnics.

The lush green hills, crystal clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for the heartwarming story. From the opening scene of Julie Andrews twirling on a mountaintop to the final shot of the family hiking over the hills, The Sound of Music will make you appreciate the natural beauty of Austria and inspire you to take a hike in the great outdoors.

Related: 20 Best Musicals for People Who Don’t Like Musicals

Life Of Pi (2012)

Life of Pi is a visually stunning adventure movie that takes place mostly on a lifeboat in the middle of the ocean. The movie follows the story of Pi, a young Indian boy who is stranded at sea with a Bengal tiger after a shipwreck. The movie explores themes of survival, spirituality, and the relationship between humans and animals. The ocean is a prominent feature throughout the movie, and director Ang Lee does an excellent job of capturing its power and majesty.

From the shimmering blue waters to the stormy waves, the ocean serves as both a beautiful and dangerous force of nature. The movie also features scenes of bioluminescent plankton and a breathtaking island that is home to meerkats. Life of Pi will make you appreciate the vastness of the ocean and the wonders that lie beneath its surface.

127 Hours (2010)

127 Hours is a true story of a man who gets trapped in a canyon in Utah while canyoneering and must resort to drastic measures to survive. The movie is a harrowing tale of survival and the human spirit, but it’s also a celebration of the beauty of nature. The canyon in which the story takes place is a stunning natural wonder, with towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and narrow canyons.

The movie features stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the canyon, as well as the danger it poses to the protagonist. The use of time-lapse photography is particularly effective in showing the passage of time and the changing light of the canyon. 127 Hours will make you appreciate the beauty of the natural world and the importance of respecting its power.

Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Grab your camel and get ready to journey through the Arabian desert in this classic epic adventure film. Set during World War I, Lawrence of Arabia tells the story of T.E. Lawrence, a British officer who becomes a liaison between the Arab tribes and the British army. Along the way, Lawrence discovers the beauty and brutality of the desert landscape and the complex politics of the region.

The film is a visual masterpiece, with stunning shots of the vast desert landscapes and the intricate details of the Bedouin culture. The characters are well-developed, especially the enigmatic T.E. Lawrence, played brilliantly by Peter O’Toole. The film’s exploration of the relationship between humans and nature is particularly noteworthy, as Lawrence finds himself drawn to the desert and its people in a way that goes beyond political alliances.

Arrival (2016)

What would happen if aliens suddenly appeared on Earth? That’s the question at the heart of Arrival, a science-fiction film that explores the complexity of communication and the power of language. Linguist Louise Banks, played by Amy Adams, is tasked with deciphering the language of the mysterious extraterrestrial visitors in order to prevent a global catastrophe.

As Louise delves deeper into the aliens’ language, she begins to have vivid dreams that blur the line between reality and imagination. The film’s exploration of time, memory, and perception is intertwined with its depiction of nature, particularly the striking images of the alien spacecraft hovering over the landscape. The cinematography is breathtaking, with sweeping aerial shots and intimate close-ups that capture the wonder and terror of encountering the unknown.

Related: 11 Other Planets in Sci-Fi Movies That Would Be Better to Live on Than Earth

Okja (2017)

Get ready for a heartwarming and heart-wrenching adventure with Okja, a film about a young girl named Mija who befriends a genetically-engineered super-pig named Okja. When the corporation that created Okja comes to take her away, Mija sets out on a mission to rescue her beloved companion.

The film’s portrayal of the relationship between humans and animals is both touching and thought-provoking, as Mija and Okja’s bond is put to the test in a world where corporate greed and animal welfare collide. The visuals are stunning, particularly the scenes set in the lush Korean countryside where Mija and Okja live. The film’s use of nature as a metaphor for the struggle between the individual and the system is particularly effective, as Mija and Okja’s journey takes them from the idyllic countryside to the concrete jungle of Seoul.

The Revenant (2015)

Picture this: you’re deep in the wilderness, surrounded by towering trees, jagged mountains, and icy rivers. It’s the 1820s, and you’re a fur trapper, fighting for survival in a brutal and unforgiving landscape. That’s the world of The Revenant, a gripping adventure film that showcases the power and beauty of nature in all its glory.

Based on a true story, The Revenant follows Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio), a skilled trapper who is left for dead after a bear attack. But instead of giving up, Glass summons all his strength and determination to survive and seek revenge on those who betrayed him. Along the way, he battles freezing temperatures, hungry wolves, and treacherous terrain, all while experiencing visions of his past and his Native American wife.

What makes The Revenant stand out is its stunning cinematography, which captures the natural elements in all their majesty. From the breathtaking landscapes to the immersive sound design, every aspect of the film is designed to transport you to another world. And while the story is intense and sometimes brutal, it ultimately celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the power of nature to both challenge and inspire us.

Into the Wild (2007)

What would happen if you decided to leave society behind and venture into the wilderness, armed with nothing but your wits and a backpack? Such is Into the Wild, a thought-provoking drama that explores the relationship between humans and nature in a unique and unconventional way. The movie tells the story of Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch), a young man who left everything behind to explore the Alaskan wilderness, Into the Wild is a character-driven film that focuses on McCandless’s journey of self-discovery.

Into the Wild lays major emphasis on the philosophical and spiritual aspects of nature. The film challenges us to think about our relationship with the natural world and the ways in which we can find meaning and purpose in our lives. The stunning scenery and immersive sound design add to the film’s meditative and introspective tone, making it a must-see for anyone who has ever been drawn to the beauty and power of the great outdoors.

The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001 – 2003)

If you haven’t watched The Lord of the Rings trilogy yet, you’re missing out on a cinematic masterpiece. The films follow the journey of hobbit Frodo Baggins and his companions as they try to destroy the One Ring and defeat the evil Lord Sauron. But the storyline is only half of what makes this trilogy so great. The breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, where the films were shot, serve as the perfect backdrop to the epic tale.

From the rolling hills of the Shire to the towering peaks of the Misty Mountains, every shot is a feast for the eyes. And let’s not forget the iconic scene of the Ents marching to war, or the battle at Helm’s Deep, both of which make excellent use of nature as a storytelling device. With stunning visuals and an engaging storyline, The Lord of the Rings trilogy is a must-watch for nature lovers and fantasy fans alike.

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180,000 photos down to 80 projects: the World Photography Awards pro shortlist

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The World Photography Organisation has revealed the shortlist and finalists for the Professional competition of the World Photography Awards, sponsored by Sony. 

This year’s submissions are as diverse as they are creative, depicting everything from ostentatious buildings to magical abstract landscapes and thought-provoking series on real-world issues. 

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Gov. Lee responds to old photo appearing to show him in drag

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“What a ridiculous, ridiculous question that is,” the governor responded.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, on Monday, addressed a photo making rounds on social media that appears to show him dressed in drag back in high school. The photo surfaced as he plans to sign a bill that would add more restrictions to public drag shows across the state. 

The Tennessee Holler, a progressive media organization based in Tennessee, said it showed the governor the photo during his media availability on Monday and asked if he remembered dressing in drag in 1977.

“What a ridiculous, ridiculous question that is,” the governor responded. “Conflating something like that to sexualized entertainment in front of children… which is a very serious subject.”

The governor did not address the photo further as the Holler’s reporter responded, “Drag is not sexualized. Do you remember it? Is this you?”

NBC News said it asked Lee’s press secretary, Jade Cooper Byers, about the photo. She did not confirm whether it is Lee in the yearbook photo. Byers told NBC News in an email that “any attempt to conflate this serious issue with lighthearted school traditions is dishonest and disrespectful to Tennessee families.”  

“The school tradition Byers referred to is most likely a powderpuff football game, in which boys dress as girls and vice versa during homecoming week,” NBC News reported. “Byers did not respond to a follow-up question asking for clarification.”

Laws around adult cabarets in Tennessee are not new. The bill placing new restrictions on drag shows, Senate Bill 3, is amending a state law that already classified male and female impersonators as adult cabaret performers. Current law points to location limits for adult-oriented establishments and cabarets, saying they shall not locate within 1,000 feet of a school, park, or place of worship.

However, the amendment Republican lawmakers are voting in favor of would add more restrictions to adult cabaret performers, preventing them from performing in any location where children might be able to see them.

State lawmakers in support of the bill said the goal of the bill is to protect children, saying it would not necessarily ban all forms of drag.

“It just simply says that you can’t do or have sexually explicit adult-themed entertainment in two specific places…. one is on public property and the other is in a private venue where kids are present,”  the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Jack Johnson (R-Franklin), said. “If someone wants to have a drag show that is totally fine, my legislation doesn’t do anything to change that. It’s just while you’re having your drag show, you can’t simulate sex acts.”

Drag performers, like Demitrya Kryst, think the new legislation specifically targets the drag community.

“If you don’t want to watch a drag show, you don’t have to,” said Kryst, who has been a drag queen for decades. “If you don’t want your kids to watch a drag show, you don’t have to let them, that’s okay.” 

Opponents of the bill also worry about the scope of how the new law will be enforced, saying the definition of “male and female impersonator” is vague and leaves too much open for personal bias. Some said they wonder where the line will be drawn on what’s considered sexualized or appealing to the “prurient interest,” as the bill states.

A local example of a drag show proposed at a park is the ‘Drag Me to Nature’ event that was scheduled at Ijams in November 2022. The event organizer, Joshua Ricker, said the event was all about teaching people about nature through performance art. He said performers planned to dress like forest fairies and other mystical creatures from nature.

“Our mission was to bring magical creatures to Ijams through performance art and ensure it was a safe and fun event for everyone of all ages to enjoy,” Ricker said. “There was a strict dress code policy set in place before people were even cast.”

However, before the event could take place, people online protested to get it canceled. Ricker said folks claimed the event was not ‘appropriate’ for children to attend. Ijams canceled. They provided a statement to 10News about the event’s cancellation.

“This event was organized with members of the LGBTQIA community to be a family event that involved people dressed in nature themes (birds, butterflies, etc.) and/or magical creature themes (elves, fairies, etc.) with song and dance as part of our Back Patio Social Series. It was never going to be a traditional drag show with burlesque elements. It was to be a celebration of nature in costume and song. Due to this confusion, we canceled the event,” said a spokesperson for Ijams.

Although the event was canceled weeks before it came to fruition, (R) Sen. Johnson said events like the one at Ijams Nature Center could still take place under this proposed legislation. He said events like Drag Story Time would be legal as well.



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