National Geographic Photography and Beekeeping

Mark Thiessen, a staff photographer at National Geographic, shares his experiences capturing unique subjects like Egyptian fruit bats and wildfires. He discusses the challenges of photographing bats in flight and his journey to becoming a certified wildfire photographer. Mark also describes his role at Nat Geo, emphasizing his versatility and problem-solving skills. Additionally, he shares insights into creative projects in the Nat Geo photo studio and his beekeeping hobby on the headquarters' roof.

What was the main challenge Mark Thiessen faced while photographing Egyptian fruit bats?

• Avoiding the bats' diseases

• Finding the bats in their natural habitat

• Photographing the bats with their wings fully spread

• Capturing the bats in natural light

What unique skill does Mark Thiessen bring to his role at National Geographic?

• Only photographing birds

• Specializing in underwater photography

• Being a versatile problem solver

• Focusing solely on African wildlife

How did Mark Thiessen gain access to photograph wildfires?

• By using a drone

• By becoming a certified wildland firefighter

• By working with local news agencies

• By sneaking past fire lines

What is a 'holdover' fire as described by Mark Thiessen?

• A fire that spreads rapidly due to wind

• A fire that burns underground and resurfaces later

• A fire that reignites after being extinguished

• A fire that is intentionally set for control

What innovative project did Mark Thiessen undertake in the National Geographic photo studio?

• Creating a desert environment

• Photographing underwater scenes

• Simulating a wildfire

• Making it rain indoors

What preparation was done before the rain photoshoot in the studio?

• Setting up a sprinkler and kiddie pool

• Using a fog machine

• Testing with a strobe light

• Installing a wind machine

What inspired Mark Thiessen to start beekeeping?

• A project for National Geographic

• A desire to learn before retiring

• A childhood interest in insects

• A suggestion from a colleague

How does Mark Thiessen extract honey from the beehives?

• Using a honey extractor machine

• Using a vacuum pump

• By hand-squeezing the honeycombs

• By heating the honeycombs

What is the role of a queen bee in a honeybee colony?

• To produce honey

• To lead the worker bees

• To defend the hive from predators

• To reproduce and ensure colony survival

What does Mark Thiessen compare a honeybee colony to?

• A chaotic system

• A well-oiled machine

• A simple community

• A super organism