Water Droplet Refractions

Water Droplet Refractions

Author: Steve Brazill April 11, 2019 Duration: 46:21

On this episode it’s the return of one of my most popular guests, Don Komarechka. Don is a nature, macro and landscape photographer from in Barrie, Ontario, Canada, and this will be his third appearance on Behind the Shot.

In his first appearance we covered the topic Don is probably best know for, his snowflake photography. Yeah, you read that correctly… actual Snowflakes. You can see that show here: The Art of Snowflakes.

For the second show he was on we decided to focus on a more common style of photography Don does, Macro photography. You can find that show here: Improve Your Macro Photography.

From auroras to pollen, insects to infrared, much of Don’s photographic adventures help us to see how the universe works. Exploring a world we cannot see with our own eyes is a common thread in Don’s career as a professional photographer. Always science-minded but never formally trained, Don uses photography as a way to explore and understand the world around him. Photographing something unusual or unknown is the perfect excuse to learn something new. Don’s work often pushes up against the technical limitations of modern camera equipment and the physical limitations of light itself. It’s in that space between photography and geek that Don seems to be most at home. He even hosts a podcast called Photo Geek Weekly, which I have had the honor of being a guest on a few times (and it is honestly one of my favorite things to do).

When you browse through Don Komarechka’s work you may have the feeling you are not doing enough with your photography. I know I do. His work is something unique and special. Part photography, part science experiment.

One of the things I truly love about Don is his total openness to the process. He will share anything to help people understand his craft. He shows behind the scenes shots often, and on the macro episode we did he even shared his raw files to convince someone that the bee was alive and real. Don is honestly one of the coolest photographers I know, and I hope you enjoy the direction we head today.

Join macro photographer Don Komarechka and me as we explore his image “Essence of Reverie”, a water droplet refraction image using a small wildflower seed, and a flower, on this episode of Behind the Shot.

Connect with Don

Full Portfolio: donkom.ca
Snowflake Portfolio: skycrystals.ca
Photo Geek Weekly Podcast: photogeekweekly.com
Workshops: donkom.ca/workshops
Facebook: @donkomphoto
Instagram: @donkomphoto
Twitter: @donkom
Flickr: @donkom
500px: @donkom


Steve Brazill hosts Behind the Shot-Video, a series that goes far beyond gear lists and camera settings. Each conversation is a deep exploration of the creative and technical journey behind compelling images. You’ll hear working photographers unpack the entire process-from the initial spark of an idea and the challenges of the location to the critical decisions made in post-production. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of art and practical technology, offering tangible lessons for anyone looking to improve their visual storytelling. Rather than abstract theory, these discussions provide a real-world look at problem-solving under pressure and the artistic choices that define a signature style. Tune in for honest, detailed breakdowns that reveal how memorable shots are truly built, layer by layer. It’s an essential resource for visual artists seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge, all grounded in the lived experience of accomplished creators.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 200

Behind the Shot - Video
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