National Geographic has posted an interview with Kenji Yamaguchi in their PROOF feature. Many photographers will not be familiar with his name, but he has played a crucial role in many of the iconic wildlife images of our time. Originally sent 32 years ago by Nikon to National Geographic to train the original technician, Yamaguchi has been repairing, modifying and creating the equipment used by National Geographic shooters in the field. His office is tucked away in a basement in the NG building, where surrounded by tools and machines, he designs and builds equipment that creates amazing imagery.

In his interview in National Geographic’s PROOF feature, when asked about his motivation, he replied that he “continually asks himself, “What can I do to make this device better?””.

(Image from Shutterstock).