Joel Sartore
Nature Photographer and National Geographic Magazine Contributor
Biography
Joel Sartore is a photographer, speaker, author, teacher, conservationist, National Geographic Fellow, and a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine. His hallmarks are a sense of humor and a Midwestern work ethic. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes in order to show a world worth saving. He is the founder of The Photo Ark, a multi-year documentary project to save species and habitat. In his words, “It is folly to think that we can destroy one species and ecosystem after another and not affect humanity. When we save species, we’re saving ourselves.” Joel has produced many books including RARE: Portraits of America’s Endangered Species, Photographing Your Family, Nebraska: Under a Big Red Sky, Let’s Be Reasonable, The Photo Ark, Birds of the Photo Ark and Vanishing. His most recent book, Wonders, is now available as well. In addition to the work he has done for National Geographic, Joel has contributed to Audubon Magazine, The New York Times, Life, Newsweek, Sports Illustrated and numerous book projects. Joel and his work are the subjects of many national broadcasts including 60 Minutes, the Today Show, Fresh Air with Terry Gross, the CBS Sunday Morning Show and believe it or not, the daytime soap opera, General Hospital. You may have also seen him on National Geographic’s Explorer, the NBC Nightly News, NPR’s Weekend Edition, an hour-long PBS documentary, At Close Range, and a contributor on the CBS Sunday Morning Show. He is also featured in a three-part series on PBS titled: RARE: Creatures of the Photo Ark and a continuation of that series on NatGeo Wild. Joel is always happy to return to home base from his travels around the world. He lives inLincoln, Nebraska, with his wife Kathy and their three children.
Speech Topics
Photo Ark Series
National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore is a man on a mission: To photograph every captive species on Earth for the Photo Arc. Nine years in and counting, he’s nearing the halfway point with literally thousands of species on board so far. Go behind the scenes with Joel as he travels around the most toxic, outrageous, colorful and simply beautiful. Things can go wrong, and often do, but getting up close and personal is what it’s all about. From hilarious to poignant, you’ll get the inside scoop on favorites like pandas, tigers and elephants, as well as animals that are on the very brink of extinction.
Grounded: A Reflection on the Use of Life and Land
When his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer photographer Joel Sartore knew that it was time to stay home for a while. He reconnected with his family and with why he takes pictures in the first place. In each life there is the potential for a positive change, and realizing it often starts very simply.
Grizzlies, Piranhas and Flesh-eating Pigs
Experience what it's like to be on assignment for the world's greatest magazine in some of Earth's most amazing places. Joel Sartore has learned the hard way that there's a lot more to it than just visualizing, then capturing amazing places, wildlife and cultures. Joel shares a lively, intimate and humorous look at what could be the best -- and worst -- job in the world.
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Joel Sartore's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Joel Sartore's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Joel Sartore's speaking fee?
The typical range for Joel Sartore's speaking fee is $21,000–$38,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Joel Sartore to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Joel Sartore for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Joel Sartore's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
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Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Joel Sartore through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Joel Sartore
Erin Brockovich
• Iconic environmental activist and consumer advocate • Real-life inspiration for Oscar-Winning film Erin Brockovich • New York Times Bestselling Author • President, Brockovich Research & Consulting
Fee Range: $25,000–$32,000
Travels From: CA
James Canton
A renown global futurist, social scientist, author and global advisor to the Fortune 100, James Canton has been forecasting the leading innovations and trends that have shaped our world for 25 years. Canton speaks on a broad range of topics such as trends in innovation, financial services, health care, population, life sciences, energy, security, workforce, climate change and globalization. He is the CEO and Chairman of the Institute for Global Futures, a San Francisco based Think Tank. He has advised three White Houses, over ten nations, and over 100 companies worldwide. He was on the founding advisory board of Singularity University, was a Apple Computer executive and has appeared on CNN, CNBC, Fox and NBC. He is the author of Future Smart, Technofutures and The Extreme Future
Fee Range: $10,000–$20,000
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Chad Pregracke
The Mississippi River was literally Chad Pregracke’s backyard while growing up. Chad and his older brother, Brent, spent the majority of their time on, in, and around the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. During his summer breaks Chad worked on the river–primarily as a commercial shell diver for the cultured pearl industry, but also as a commercial fisherman and barge hand. It was during this time that Chad began to realize how neglected the rivers were, with the unsightly and toxic accumulation of trash along their banks. At age 17, he started making calls to government agencies, alerting them to the problem. As the problem worsened, Chad , took matters into his own hands. At 23 years of age, Chad founded Living Lands & Waters, which has grown to 70,000 volunteers, collecting 8 million pounds of debris. In 2013, he was named CNN Hero of the Year.
Fee Range: $5,000–$11,000
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Andrew Winston
Andrew Winston is a globally-recognized expert on megatrends and how to build companies that thrive by serving the world. Named to Thinkers50 list of the top management thinkers in the world, he is the author of the bestsellers Green to Gold, The Big Pivot, and most recently, Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More than They Take (co-authored with renowned CEO Paul Polman). Net Positive was one of the Financial Times’ Best Business Books of the Year. Andrew received degrees in economics, business, and environmental management from Princeton, Columbia, and Yale.
Fee Range: $20,000–$30,000
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