William E. Bentley

Born in Jericho, Vermont, in 1865, Wilson A. Bentley grew up on a farm and became fascinated by snow at a young age. Using a microscope and later a camera attached to it, he taught himself how to photograph individual snow crystals—something no one had done in such detail before.

Over the course of more than 40 years, he made thousands of photographs of snowflakes, along with images of frost, dew, and other natural forms. His careful work combined patience, scientific curiosity, and an artist’s eye, earning him the lasting nickname "Snowflake" Bentley.

Bentley died in 1931, but his work continued to inspire scientists, photographers, and nature lovers. He is still remembered for showing that no two snowflakes are exactly alike and for capturing a fragile beauty that most people never get to see up close.