'Fleays Frog'

1. How was it different to photographing invertebrates?

I really had to rethink my approach for frogs. Many of the frogs are living in quarantine conditions in zoos because of their endangered status so I had to photograph indoors - so have experimented with lighting for the first time. I have a studio light that runs of its own small (but heavy) battery for indoors work and for my expeditions into rainforest. Every challenge is a chance for me to experiment and learn – and that is a delight.

2. What has been your favourite experience/frog so far?

Every frog has had me jumping for joy! My favourite frog may be ‘Jabba’ the Splendid Green tree frog at the zoo -  she tried to swallow the keepers finger at one point – and when frogs swallow, their eyes suck down – it was totally comical to watch!

I also love, love, love the sound the motorbike frog makes – it really does sound like a motorbike!

3. What exactly is the ‘frog studio’?

I have a transportable bug studio and I have even created a bird studio – both involve an enclosed space to prevent escape of the subject and help with lighting conditions and the elements. I initially considered a ‘frog studio’ but due to quarantine restrictions it was not possible. Every shoot on this project has been different, and every frog has presented different challenges. Thankfully I have my trusty assistant Angus to respond to changing lighting and have been working with keepers who really know their frogs and have been able to help me get up with ready frog ‘body language’. I have to be able to anticipate what my subject is going to do and be ready to capture the magic…

4. Have you photographed the Corroboree Frog?

I never knew about the Corroboree frog until I started this project – what a beautiful, beautiful little being – and to think that there are only 200 or so in the wild and the few that are quarantined in captivity. You could let the thought of extinction overwhelm you, but there are marvellous people dedicated to endangered frogs – the Perth Zoo has a team working on WA’s scant amphibians – there is good news too.

5. What was your motivation behind doing the exhibition?

I simply do not want to live in a world without frogs. After seeing the gentle nature of frogs up close, I feel even more strongly that we must act as a community to do whatever we can to stop their demise. ‘Frogology’ aims to enflame a love and respect for frogs and give them a voice – I think the exhibition can inspire thousands and eventually million of ‘Frogologists’ to take up the challenge of treating the earth gently and making room for our precious, adorable frogs – We must not let them croak!