Harada presentation, film, showing at FVCC

Renowned wildlife photographer and filmmaker Sumio Harada will have a program entitled “Hidden Life in Glacier” at 7 p.m. Dec. 20 in the Flathead Valley Community College’s Arts and Technology Building.

Anyone can come across a variety of animals in Glacier Park. However, it takes patience and time to see how park wildlife live their lives. In this presentation Harada will showcase breathtaking images of animals in their natural habitats, highlighting their beauty and the importance of preserving their ecosystems. You will see breeding, hunting, foraging, hibernating and birthing bears, goats, and mountain lions. 

A Japanese television crew joined Harada camping in Many Glacier in December 2023 to film Sumio at work for a 2024 TV program. You will see behind-the-scenes footage of the challenges and rewards of wildlife photography, as well as the dedication and commitment required to capture these extraordinary moments. Harada will share his experiences of setting up camp in the snowy wilderness, battling freezing temperatures, and braving the elements to get the perfect shot. Prepare to be inspired, entertained, and captivated by the beauty and resilience of the animals that call this park their home. 

Harada was born in Japan. He studied biology at the Tokyo University of Agriculture. His research on the behavior of the Japanese serow, a close relative of the mountain goat, led to his wildlife photography career. 

Harada started to take photographs of mountain goats in the Canadian Rockies in 1987. In 1989 and 1991, Harada stayed in Glacier National Park. Then he fell in love with the park. He moved to West Glacier from Japan with his wife and daughter. Since 1994 he has spent much of his time in the Rocky Mountains, especially Glacier National Park, where Harada photographs and videos the lives, adventures, and antics of animals. 

His images have been published in numerous publications including National Geographic, Montana Outdoors and Ranger Rick as well as many other magazines and books across the world.