30 years ago, I chose to become a photographer after seeing firsthand the power of images as catalysts for change. As vital as scientific research is for understanding and protecting our planet, the world of graphs, charts, and data is not accessible to everyone. Art, on the other hand, has the power to move the hearts of people around the world. We do not need a background in science to fall in love with the beauty of nature or feel the heartbreaking loss of our fellow wildlife. That is why I chose photography after working as a marine biologist. I wanted to lower the price of admission for others to participate in some of the most important conversations and solutions of our era. To me, art is empowerment and the work of artists is invaluable for driving change. The idea that companies are taking the works of creators and using Ai to profit off of their legacies without their consent is unjust and infuriating. Artists deserve compensation for their contributions to the world. If yo...