Robert Irwin followed in his father Steve Irwin‘s footsteps in a number of ways. Steve passed away when Robert was just a very young boy. Even so, Robert said he still feels very connected to his dad and recently released a photography book as a way to honor him.
Robert said that not only was he inspired to work at the Australia Zoo with animals because of his dad, but Steve also inspired him to start taking photos. He explained, “My dad was a very, very passionate photographer. It sort of runs in the family. He was equally enthusiastic behind the lens as in front of it. And it’s just always kind of been there and been part of my life.”
Robert Irwin released a photography book in honor of his late father Steve Irwin
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Robert’s new book features photos of his home country of Australia and even includes some never-before-seen photos of the Irwin family. Robert Irwin’s Australia also shares photos that show the real effects of climate change in Australia.
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Robert has been working on the photography book for five years. He added, “I thought, ‘You know what? I want to do this justice and make something that really celebrates what has become my own individual way to carry on my father’s legacy.'” Robert also shared that he hopes he can continue to create more books as a type of series.
Robert concluded, “What dad really instilled in me – because I was very young when he passed away, but he was there so much of my early years – [was that] he was so passionate about being there for myself and my sister all the time. He was the most devoted dad. I think that passion that he had and just that absolute zest for life is just my foundation. I like to say it’s a factory setting for me.”