Robert Berdan: Photographic Tours and Instruction Specializing in Nature and Wildlife.

My company offers photographic tours and instruction specializing in nature and wildlife. Recently I have moved the focus to the photographing and writing about Protists microorganisms living in Freshwater and specialize in photomicrography services.

Tell us about yourself?

I was a cell biologist\neurobiologist for about 20 years, then worked as a manager of the Calgary Science Center in education and exhibit development – after 5 years I started my own web development company, and also developed and taught web design, programming and photography at local colleges while also building hundreds of web sites.

After 20 years decided to write a book and take my business in a different direction based on my first passion for science and microscopy.

If you could go back in time a year or two, what piece of advice would you give yourself?

I don’t have any regrets in this regard, I followed my passion, money is important but its not the most important thing. As one gets older physical fitness and eating right has become even more important and I try to exercise at least 5X a week

What problem does your business solve?

I provide education and microscopy services. I hope to inspire younger folks to enter science and wonder more about the world around us. I also provide commercial services for advertising campany’s (e.g. caffeine crystals) and industrial applications such as filters, roofing materials.

What is the inspiration behind your business?

I have always been fascinated with “invisible” living cells, how they work, but also the apparent beauty and design that exists in nature e.g. Diatoms, Radiolarians etc.

What is your magic sauce?

There are some labs in aquatic biology that identify and quantify organisms which are used in reclamation. My services differ in that I seek the beauty or art in microorganisms and I have both the equipment and knowledge. Folks involved in biological research may have the skills, but they don’t have the time to

What is the plan for the next 5 years? What do you want to achieve?

1. Pay off all my equipment debts
2. Create several books
3. Promote my microscopy Art
4. Stay fit and healthy

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far?

Covid has reduced my overall business so I need to do what I ever has to be done to stay financially healthy.

How do people get involved/buy into your vision?

Visit my web site (canadiannaturephotographer.com), learn and hopefully be inspired.