Photography

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The Story Behind My Favorite Photo: Mia Gonzalez and the Power of 3D Printing

 1024 683 Michael Kraabel

Sometimes, a photo becomes more than just an image—it becomes a story, a moment of triumph, and a symbol of what’s possible when technology and humanity come together. One of my favorite photos is of Mia Gonzalez, a young girl who unknowingly became the face of life-saving innovation through a Stratasys case study. Her story, and the role of 3D printing in her life, still resonates deeply with me.

Mia was born with a complex congenital condition that required delicate, high-stakes surgery. Her surgeon faced a challenge that many in their field encounter: traditional imaging methods like MRIs and CT scans can only provide so much clarity. They’re flat, abstract, and leave much to interpretation when trying to understand the intricate, three-dimensional anatomy of a patient like Mia. For her surgeon, precision was non-negotiable. Any mistake could have life-altering consequences.

That’s where 3D printing came in.

Using Stratasys’ advanced 3D printing technology, the surgical team created an exact replica of Mia’s anatomy—a life-sized, tangible model of her heart and surrounding structures. For the first time, her surgeon could hold a perfect representation of the challenge ahead, exploring it from every angle and rehearsing the procedure with unparalleled accuracy. This wasn’t just about visualizing the surgery; it was about walking into the operating room fully prepared, confident, and equipped with an almost tactile familiarity of what they would encounter.

The day of Mia’s surgery came, and her surgeon’s preparation paid off. The operation was a success, and Mia’s recovery was a testament to the incredible partnership between cutting-edge technology and medical expertise. That 3D-printed model didn’t just save time in the operating room; it gave Mia a chance at a healthier, fuller life.

The photo I captured—Mia smiling brightly, her energy and spirit radiating—was taken just months after her surgery. It’s not just a picture of a child; it’s a visual representation of hope and progress. Whenever I look at it, I think about the countless people like Mia who will benefit from innovations like 3D printing in the years to come. Her story reminds me why I love what I do—because every once in a while, you get to be part of something bigger than yourself.

For The Love of Industrial Photography

 1024 683 Michael Kraabel

In industrial and commercial environments, photography and filmmaking offer a unique and exhilarating experience, teeming with challenges and opportunities distinct from traditional settings. At least for me.

These locations are more than just backdrops; they are vibrant landscapes of creativity and innovation, filled with interesting textures, surfaces, and man-made materials that demand a photographer’s keen eye and adaptability. I’ve photographed and filmed in some pretty unique locations.  The best part about each shoot is that I feel like I am not only learning, but uncovering the hidden secrets behind the face of a company the outside world is allowed to view.

Most people would just see a bustling laboratory or a busy dental lab. While it might appear chaotic and lacking beauty, to a photographer like myself, it’s a goldmine of moments waiting to be captured. Each corner of these spaces tells a story; each person’s day is a chapter in a larger narrative of craftsmanship and precision. It’s not just about photographing objects or people; it’s about immortalizing the essence of their work and the spirit of their contribution to their craft.  The hands at work make interesting subjects.

One such experience was during a photo shoot at a dental lab in Ottawa. This wasn’t just any assignment; it was an integral part of a rebranding program initiated by Stratasys, a leader in 3D printing technology. The mission was clear: to capture compelling content that showcased how 3D printing is revolutionizing the industrial and medical fields.

The Ottawa lab was a hive of innovation (at least in this industry), utilizing 3D printing technology in groundbreaking and interesting ways. Dental implants, dentures, and molds for crowns were being crafted with precision and care, demonstrating the incredible potential of 3D printing in healthcare.

As a photographer, this presented an opportunity to capture images of cutting-edge technology and tell an interesting story of modern medical technology.

The day spent at the lab was a chance to delve into an aspect of the industry that often goes unnoticed by the public eye. Every photograph taken was a testament to the work behind the scenes – work that impacts lives and shapes the future.