To celebrate the launch of Joel Sartore’s Photo Ark campaign, National Geographic undertook a multifaceted initiative to raise awareness about species conservation. Central to the campaign were 12 unique covers for a special edition of National Geographic Magazine, each featuring Sartore’s striking portraits of endangered species. To elevate the impact, the Fine Art Galleries curated a limited-edition set of prints from these cover images, aimed at collectors and photography enthusiasts.

The Challenge

The campaign required a cohesive creative approach to tie together multiple components—a magazine, fine art prints, and a companion book—while maintaining the integrity of Sartore’s powerful photography. The design needed to celebrate the beauty of the species, inspire conservation efforts, and appeal to both art collectors and casual audiences without overshadowing the subject matter.

The Vision

The vision was to craft a unified storytelling experience that would connect people emotionally to the world’s most vulnerable species. Each design element had to reflect Sartore’s mission of documenting biodiversity while creating a sense of urgency around conservation efforts.

The Solution

Riot of Colors played a pivotal role in designing the Photo Ark Gallery Book, which served as both a companion piece to the limited-edition prints and a standalone work of art. The book’s design featured:

• Striking Visual Balance: Unique layouts and typography complemented the photographs without distracting from the species’ beauty.
• Immersive Storytelling: Thoughtful pacing and minimalistic design choices allowed each image to stand out, creating an emotional connection with the viewer.
• A Collector’s Touch: The book’s refined aesthetic was tailored to match the fine art quality of the prints, ensuring it resonated with a sophisticated audience.

The Impact

The Photo Ark campaign successfully brought attention to Sartore’s mission, inspiring action and appreciation for species preservation. The limited-edition prints became a coveted collector’s item, while the Photo Ark Gallery Book offered a meaningful way for audiences to engage with the photography and message. The seamless integration of the book into the campaign elevated its reach, making it an essential part of the Photo Ark experience and a testament to National Geographic’s commitment to conservation.