What makes a truly great photograph? For Tony Baldasaro, it’s not about the gear, the lighting, or even the subject—it’s about presence. In this thoughtful and deeply personal TEDx talk, award-winning nature photographer Tony Baldasaro reveals how letting go of rigid expectations allowed him to reconnect with the wonder of the natural world—and capture moments that matter.From losing his wallet mid-flight to photographing cows in the New England countryside, Tony’s stories remind us that life’s most meaningful images aren’t staged—they’re sensed. With humor and heart, he encourages us all to find our own creative “lens” that invites awe, slows time, and deepens connection.Tony blends his background in biology and public education with over 20 years of photographic experience. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or simply craving stillness in a fast-paced world, this talk is your invitation to be still—and be moved.Tony, a native New Englander, is the owner of TB3 Photography and is passionate about capturing the natural beauty of landscapes and wildlife through photography. After studying biology and ornithology in college, he spent nearly 30 years in public education, sharing his love for the natural world and his belief in everyone’s ability to learn and grow. With over 20 years of nature photography experience, Tony now finds joy in helping others improve their skills. His true passion lies in preserving fleeting natural moments with his camera.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Will AI systems ever become sentient? How should we treat them if we feel uncertain? The prospect of AI systems possessing their own thoughts, feelings, and emotions is no longer an issue confined to science fiction or the distant future. There is a realistic possibility that some AI systems will soon have these capacities, and we should start developing an ethical framework to address this issue now, so that we can be prepared if and when the time comes. This talk was presented on September 25, 2024.Jeff is an associate professor of environmental studies, an affiliated professor of bioethics, medical ethics, philosophy, and law, the director of the center for environmental and animal protection, and the director of the center for mind, ethics, and policy at New York University. His work focuses on moral, legal, and political questions involving AI, animals, and the environment. Jeff argues for expanding our moral circle to include animals, AI systems, and other nonhumans with transformative implications for our lives and societies.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Is consciousness separate from the physical world or a fundamental function of the brain? In this talk, Dr. Andringa explores one of science’s greatest mysteries and what it reveals about the nature of our reality. Is consciousness separate from the physical world or a fundamental function of the brain? In this talk, Dr. Andringa explores one of science’s greatest mysteries and what it reveals about the nature of our reality. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In this inspiring talk, Zahra draws on her years of experience as a bridge builder, helping victims of the Dutch Childcare Benefits Scandal recover with dignity, as well as her own journey through child poverty and inequity. She’ll show you why bridge builders are essential to creating real social change and provide a powerful roadmap for bringing people together, amplifying unheard voices, and making justice a reality—wherever you go. In this inspiring talk, Zahra draws on her years of experience as a bridge builder, helping victims of the Dutch Childcare Benefits Scandal recover with dignity, as well as her own journey through child poverty and inequity. She’ll show you why bridge builders are essential to creating real social change and provide a powerful roadmap for bringing people together, amplifying unheard voices, and making justice a reality—wherever you go. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

I will explore Taoist concepts of learning and mastery through the lens of music. Using personal anecdotes and excerpts from the Tao Te Ching, I will offer a new perspective on how we view ourselves and our growth. This talk will highlight that while failure may not be what we want, it is often exactly what we need. I will explore Taoist concepts of learning and mastery through the lens of music. Using personal anecdotes and excerpts from the Tao Te Ching, I will offer a new perspective on how we view ourselves and our growth. This talk will highlight that while failure may not be what we want, it is often exactly what we need. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

The mind is not easy to interview, but it sure does like talking to the colours. Through her art, Idil reveals her own reflections and understandings of consciousness. The mind is not easy to interview, but it sure does like talking to the colors. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx