Photographer and filmmaker Ian Shive stands before the weathered wreckage of a plane in the Aleutians. Courtesy Image
The Marine Science Institute at UC Santa Barbara hosted a mesmerizing event, welcoming renowned photographer, filmmaker, and conservation storyteller Ian Shive for a visually stunning and inspiring evening.
MSI Director Rebecca Vega Thurber, Ian Shive, and MSI Deputy Director Bob Miller
The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from MSI Director Dr. Rebecca Vega Thurber, who gave attendees a friendly overview of the Institute’s mission and some of the exciting projects currently underway. She highlighted how the Institute is making a difference in marine science, education, and conservation, both locally and beyond. Deputy Director Dr. Bob Miller then took the stage to introduce the night’s featured speaker, sharing a bit about Ian Shive’s impressive career and achievements. His introduction set the stage for what would be an inspiring presentation.
From the moment Shive stepped onto the stage, the audience was captivated. Known for his Ansel Adams Award–winning photography and extensive conservation work, he transported viewers to national parks, remote marine sanctuaries, and some of the most pristine environments on Earth. His fusion of breathtaking imagery, sharp humor, and intimate storytelling brought these wild places to life.
Shive also spoke about his intentional use of the “human element” in his photographs—sometimes just a tiny figure for scale, sometimes someone caught in a moment against a massive landscape. These subtle traces of human presence, he explained, make his images more engaging and emotionally impactful. They remind us that these wild places aren’t just beautiful, they’re layered with stories and vibrant with history.
Throughout the evening, Shive shared behind-the-scenes insights from his prolific career: his award-winning still photography; the more than 50 episodes of nature documentaries he has produced for Warner Bros. Discovery; his acclaimed books celebrating America’s public lands and waters; and his recent IMAX 3D film Wild Rescue. Each story underscored his deep commitment to conservation and the power of visual storytelling to inspire environmental stewardship.
Shive’s passion left the audience inspired to see—and protect—our planet with fresh eyes
A heartfelt thank-you to Ian Shive for an unforgettable night, and to everyone who joined us in celebrating the beauty and importance of Earth’s wild places.