admin, Author at Girls Who Click

Crafting a Compelling Conservation Photo-Story: A Guide for Aspiring Visual Storytellers

by adminSeptember 10, 2024September 29, 2024 1 Comment

As a storyteller and conservation wildlife photojournalist, I am driven to capture compelling stories with my camera. Whether documenting the wonders of nature, showcasing scientific discoveries, or highlighting the efforts of NGOs on the front lines of protecting our wild spaces, my work serves as a powerful tool to raise awareness and inspire action on conservation issues.

My career has taken me across the globe to communicate important conservation stories. Learning how to tell a good story can enhance many aspects of your career beyond photography. It has enabled me to become a better writer, artist, and communicator, and it can even help establish relationships with brands. Story is at the heart of everything; once you learn how to find it, doors will open for you.

Telling stories through art has been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years. These stories connect us, and art preserves them in history forever. In today’s rapidly changing world, there has never been a more perfect moment to be a conservation photographer. Climate and environmental stories are in abundance, often right in our backyards. As an aspiring visual storyteller, starting locally offers numerous advantages. It allows you to connect with your community, immerse yourself in the story and its characters without time constraints, and refine your photography skills until you capture the perfect shots.

A well-crafted conservation photo story can evoke emotions, educate the public, and inspire change. The key to telling a compelling visual story is to lead with your heart; it is this heartfelt approach that brings the magic. Here’s a step-by-step guide from my experience to creating a compelling conservation photo story.

1. Find Your Passion

Before picking up the camera, you need to find your “why” – the driving force that keeps you awake at night and excites you. Every conservation photographer should start by asking themselves: Why am I passionate about conservation? What stories excite me? What change do I want to bring to the world through my work? If you aren’t passionate about the story or subject matter you’re communicating, it will be challenging to inspire passion and excitement in others.

It’s this passion that creates magic in every photo. Understanding your motivations will guide your work and give it purpose. Whether your goal is to raise awareness about endangered species, protect a local natural area, or inspire others to take action, having a strong sense of purpose will help you create meaningful and impactful stories.

2. Do Your Research

So you have found your “why” and your passion. Now, let’s find some stories. Whether you are at the beginning of your photojournalism journey or more experienced, focusing on local stories that are easily accessible and require minimal funding is the perfect place to start.

Selecting a local conservation issue that is relevant, current, and resonates deeply with you is how impactful images are born. Topics may include endangered species, habitat destruction, climate change, or successful conservation efforts. Stay up-to-date with the news, use Google Alerts for topics of interest, and engage with local journalists, conservationists, organizations, and community members to gain a deeper understanding of the issue. This approach allows you to contribute to your community while honing your skills. By sticking with local stories, you can gradually build trust within the community, which is essential for capturing the most compelling images.

One crucial lesson I’ve learned is that if the subject doesn’t want you to do a story on them or the topic, then there isn’t a story there for you. It’s important to recognize when to stop pursuing a story and move on to the next.

Remember, photojournalism is a marathon, not a sprint, and it can take many years to complete a story. Building trust and understanding within the community will eventually lead to the most powerful and authentic work.

3. Finding Your Story's Structure

Once you have found your story, it is crucial to fully understand it before you start shooting. It’s important to distinguish between a story and a topic. Topics are broad and general, serving as umbrellas under which more specific stories and angles can be developed. Stories add specificity and context to topics, providing insights into how, why, and when events occur.

For compelling photo stories, focus on the story, not the entire topic. Each story should have three main elements: Characters, Conflict, and Timeliness. When choosing your main character, think outside the box. While characters are often people, they can also be wildlife, cities, buildings, locations, or objects. Consider these questions when identifying your character: Who are they? What are their values? What are their desires and goals?

Like a storybook, your photo story should have a beginning, middle, and end, usually following a journey or process. This journey can be broken down into three actions to make it more compelling and emotionally engaging:

Call to Action: Something happens that the character can no longer ignore, prompting them to act on their desires or motives.
Conflict: Challenges or obstacles that the main character faces and must overcome.
Resolution: How the character achieves or fails to achieve their desires. Consider what has changed and photograph how the main character’s emotions have shifted. This can be illustrated through color, location or lighting.

By finding your story, honing in on your character’s wants, needs, and desires, and following a strong structure and narrative, you will be on the road to creating a successful photo story.

Photo taken by Francesca Page whilst on assignment capturing an incredible NGO called ‘'Kebersamaan Untuk Lautan' (KUL) in Sumatra, Indonesia. This photo shows fishers pull up traps, resembling oversized lobster pots, that have been resting on the seafloor 25-30 meters deep for the past 12 hours. KUL is gradually introducing this new form of sustainable fishing to local fishers, as it increases targeted catch and reduces bycatch of critically endangered sharks and rays.

4. Plan and Visualize Your Shots

Now that you’ve identified your passion, found a story, and planned its structure, it’s time for the fun part: visualizing your shots. Before heading into the field, I recommend meeting with key people involved in the story – scientists, conservationists, and community members. Read research papers and other materials to deepen your understanding. If you can’t visit the location yet, watch documentaries, find photos, and use Google Maps to get a sense of the place.

To convey your message effectively, shoot with purpose. Ensure you capture three essential types of shots: a close-up detailed shot, a medium-angle shot, and a wide shot, making sure no image repeats itself. Start with the ‘safe shot’ and then experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions. This variety will give you a rich pool of images to choose from when compiling your photo story.

Drawing your story in thumbnails beforehand can help you visualize and approach your work with a clear idea. Think of a photo story like a wordless comic strip, a method inspired by my studies in illustration. This approach helps me stay focused on capturing all the necessary shots.

Finally, think outside the box. If a story has already been covered, find a unique angle or perspective. Remember, you are an artist, using your camera as a paintbrush to illuminate important stories. Let creativity guide you, and don’t hesitate to use tools like camera flashes, filters, and artistic lenses to create different effects.

5. Capturing The Moment

While in the field, remember that you are the messenger, there to capture, not to interfere. Ethical considerations are paramount; your presence should not harm the environment or disturb wildlife. Follow guidelines and regulations for photographing in protected areas, obtain necessary permissions, and respect the dignity and privacy of individuals. Building trust is crucial as you document people’s lives. Approach your work with care, sensitivity, and respect.

Most importantly, enjoy the experience. The most rewarding work of my photography career has been out in nature or with people on the front lines protecting our wild spaces. It’s enriching and fulfilling to make new connections, understand new places, and spend time with new creatures.

Photo taken by Francesca Page whilst on assignment capturing an incredible NGO called ‘'Kebersamaan Untuk Lautan' (KUL) in Sumatra, Indonesia. Tangled in the sharp embrace of gill nets, a critically endangered smooth nose wedgefish represents the devastating costs of bycatch. Fortunately, there is a hopeful side to this story: the smooth nose wedgefish is still alive and will soon be tagged and released back into the wild, playing a role in the fight to save its species from extinction.

6. Be a Ruthless Photo Editor

Your first photo story is complete, congratulations! Now comes the editing process, where you need to be blunt with your work. If a shot is beautiful but doesn’t serve the story, don’t use it.

Avoid editing images on the same day you shoot; it’s easier to be objective after some time has passed. After a few days, select the best 25-50 photos from your shoot. A day or more later, narrow those down to the top 10 images, ensuring each photo serves your original story concept. Aim for 5-10 photos in your final photo story.

Seek advice from trusted friends, colleagues, or family who aren’t emotionally attached to the story. Give them your top 25-50 photos and ask them to select their top 10. This can provide valuable insight into how effectively you’ve captured the story.

Don’t fear failure. With each photo story, you’ll grow and learn. Over time, you’ll become more confident, bolder in your experiments, and more attuned to what to look for. Practice, courage, and curiosity are key to your development as a conservation photojournalist.

7. Getting It Out There

Now that your photo story is complete, it’s time to share it with the world. If no one sees your work, the power of storytelling remains hidden. Share your story on social media, and engage with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes insights and personal reflections. Try to get it shown at local community centers and exhibitions. Contact reputable publications with large audiences that pay photographers for their work, such as news outlets, papers, and magazines. Encourage viewers to learn more, support conservation efforts, and share the story within their networks. The more people who see your work, the greater its impact will be.

Storytelling and photography are powerful tools that amplify the voices of others. Crafting a compelling conservation photo story requires passion, dedication, and creativity. In a world facing significant environmental challenges, your photography can be a beacon of hope and a call to action. Let your lens bring hidden stories to light and drive meaningful change.

Now, go unleash your creativity and tell some stories!

This article was written by Francesca Page, published illustrator, award-winning photographer, writer, dive professional and GWC Ambassador.

Inspiring Wildlife Photography Workshop in Vancouver, B.C. with Gunjan Menon

by adminAugust 24, 2024September 29, 2024 Leave a comment

On August 11th, Girls Who Click held an inspiring Photography Workshop in Vancouver, Canada, led by our Partner Photographer, Gunjan Menon. This free outdoor session offered 13 to 18-year-old girls a chance to explore the basics of nature and wildlife photography in a welcoming and supportive environment. Gunjan, an award-winning conservation filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer invited girls who want to learn to click to Stanley Park, a hidden gem teeming with urban wildlife in Vancouver, Canada.

Here is what Gunjan had to say about the day:

What is your gift to the world?

Reflecting on our place in this world connects us in a shared mission—to tell stories that protect the planet and inspire people. This is the feeling I wanted to experience with the girls, and it’s how we began the workshop. The first time I was asked this question, like the girls, I too felt a bit unsure. But it’s a question that keeps coming back to me. I hope as the girls continue their journey, they’ll think about it too—and realize just how lucky the world is to receive the incredible gifts that they will be sharing of finding awe and wonder in nature.

We wanted to host this workshop to help young girls learn the basics of nature photography hands-on and learn what it takes to become conservation storytellers. We encouraged BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth to join us, and thanks to Girls Who Click, Shelley Khunkhun and Beyond Premieres, we were able to provide cameras for those who didn’t have access, breaking down any barriers to participation.

We were fortunate to have the wonderful Melissa Hafting, a wildlife ecologist and the founder of BC Young Birders, to lead our bird walk. Melissa’s passion for birds is contagious, and she is renowned and loved as a bird expert in British Columbia. Shelley Khunkhun, an environmental photographer and UBC Masters student, also joined us and volunteered her time and camera for the participants. We’re deeply grateful to both Melissa and Shelley for joining us and spending their Sunday with our young photographers.

Photos by Shelley Khunkhun

Close one eye, make a frame with your fingers and look around!

We began by looking at the world around us through this “frame”, encouraging the girls to start thinking like photographers. We then moved on to the technical aspects, we covered shot sizes, composition, and framing, encouraging the girls to experiment with different angles and become comfortable with their camera settings.

The girls soon turned their lenses to the cool birdlife in the park, capturing stunning and rare moments—some holding a camera for the first time. We had a discussion about the ethics of wildlife photography, emphasizing the importance of respecting animals and telling compelling conservation stories. Melissa, with her deep knowledge of Stanley Park’s ecosystem, introduced the group to a variety of birds. We were on the lookout for the elusive Northern Waterthrush. Someone had sighted it in the area and we could all hear it, but somehow not see it!

Anica and Sunny in the meantime, were quick to spot a Black-throated Gray Warbler bathing in Ceperley Creek—a perfect moment to discuss lighting and composition. The girls also marveled at a Western Flycatcher and Willow Flycatcher sparring, and the playful flocks of Bushtits flitting about. Throughout the day, we worked closely with the girls, helping them fine-tune their camera settings and perfect their shots. While exposure proved tricky for some, their skills were visibly improving. The most important aspect of wildlife photography — patience — was also practiced (and tested).

My daughter thoroughly enjoyed her photography experience as it allowed her to express her creativity in new and exciting ways. Through photography, she discovered a passion for capturing the beauty of the world around her, from the smallest details to the grandest landscapes. The experience not only sparked her imagination but also taught her patience and the value of seeing things from different perspectives. It helped her develop a keen eye for detail and a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling through images.

Sanaz

Participant Parent

After the bird walk, we regrouped to explore what makes a strong story. The task was to pick one bird species and capture its story through a series of photos. But being mindful of the birds’ natural behaviour was key. The big moment came when Naomi photographed the elusive Northern Waterthrush bobbing its tail by the muddy banks—a “lifer” for all the girls. Sunny managed to photograph a Merlin with a catch! They also witnessed an immature Green Heron catch and eat a frog, a scene many were able to capture, including the youngest participant — Armita. Nicole made a really interesting photograph of the heron hiding behind a rock just before striking its prey.

Melissa, Shelley, and I were there to answer any questions as the girls worked on their assignments, and I couldn’t help but feel proud of their growing confidence.

We sat in a circle under a famous old tree and each girl presented her photo story, choosing seven images to convey their message. The series on a Green Heron stalking its prey was particularly striking, illustrating how photography can evoke emotion and tell a deeper story. One participant even used a smartphone to capture her images, proving that the heart of storytelling isn’t always in the tools but the vision behind them. Kate and Annica surprised me by wanting to create stories about Canada geese and not the rarer birds in the park, which showed their inclination to practice their newly learnt photography and storytelling techniques on a subject they were familiar with, could get closer to and creatively see them with a new perspective. I was really impressed by everyone’s clarity of vision and thought process that went into creating these photo stories.

In the end, we discussed questions about various cameras, careers in wildlife, photography techniques, tips and tricks and shared feedback on the photo stories.

As the day ended, Melissa informed us we’d spotted an impressive 43 bird species!

A massive thanks to Melissa Hafting for leading the bird walk, and to Shelley Khunkhun and Saiyam Wakchaure from Beyond Premieres for their invaluable help throughout the day. This workshop was a memorable step in these young photographers’ journeys, and I can’t wait to see where their newfound skills will take them

Transformative Moments at the Girls Who Click Workshop in Alaska

by adminJuly 31, 2024September 29, 2024 Leave a comment

This blog post is written by photographer, ambassador and workshop lead Beth Hotchkiss.

The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of excitement and nervous energy as twelve girls, ranging in age from 10 to 17, gathered for a Girls Who Click (GWC) photography workshop in Alaska. “How many of you are photographers?” asked a volunteer. A few hands timidly rose, but most remained by their sides. It was a tentative start to what would ultimately become a day full of transformation.

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and clusters of small, green trees, the group soon settled into their classroom at the Eagle River Nature Center. Here, they embarked on a journey of discovery, learning firsthand how to unlock their inner photographers and make an impact.

Workshop Sessions: Learning and Exploration

The day began with introductions, a safety debriefing, and icebreakers. Then a set of speakers: GWC Ambassador Beth Hotchkiss, photographer Michael DeYoung, and GWC Photographer Cathy Hart, captivated the group through informative presentations. The girls discovered how science and photography connect, and learned how to contribute to scientific exploration through platforms like Zooniverse and iNaturalist. Moreover, the group was introduced to the principles of composition and the art of storytelling through images, setting the stage for the afternoon ahead.

Under the guidance of experienced mentors, the girls set out on their first assignment: to explore the Eagle River Nature Center and use their images to tell a story. Divided into groups, they ventured into different corners of the park. With cameras in hand – some owned, others borrowed – the girls began photographing their environment. For a few, it was their first time handling a camera. As they practiced framing their shots, their confidence grew with each click of the shutter. They experimented with different angles, played with light and shadow, and found an abundance of inspiration in their surroundings.

“My heart was full of joy watching the girls so engaged,” said volunteer Sara Peebles. “Once those cameras got in their hands, they came alive!” Mentoring three Afghan girls in the workshop, Sara noted, “it’s a new cultural experience for them. Afghan girls normally go to school and come straight back home.” Watching them photograph mushrooms, flowers, and other visitors at the Nature Center, Sara saw something click within the girls, later remarking, “their passion for photography was born that day.”

An hour and a half later, all the girls gathered back in the classroom to select their three favorite images and craft their stories. Some focused on the beauty of nature, while others were drawn to moments steeped in personal memories or emotion. The culmination of the workshop was full of pride and accomplishment as each girl presented their photo story to peers and mentors alike. Each narrative was unique, giving a new glimpse of the world as seen through their eyes.

Key Takeaways: Areas of Focus.

The Girls Who Click workshop left a lasting impression on participants and volunteers alike, inspiring all to continue exploring the world through their cameras and using their skills to make a difference. Three major lessons from the day were:

1.We are ALL photographers in training. Photography is a skill that is developed through practice; it requires us to embrace the process of learning and celebrate small wins along the way. Whether it’s our first day or fiftieth year wielding a camera, there’s always room for growth. You don’t become a photographer once you’ve reached an ‘expert’ level, you become a photographer the moment you pick up a camera.

2. Photography is about YOU. “The best camera is the one you have on you,” shared workshop volunteer Michael DeYoung. At its core, photography is not about the type of gear you have but about the person behind the lens—their vision, creativity, and unique perspective. No two people see the world in exactly the same way, which is what makes photography such a powerful art form. It’s our individual viewpoints that set our images apart and enable us to make a meaningful impact.

3. No IMPACT is too small: Photography can be used to inspire others, advocate for change, document moments, express feelings, and so much more! Understanding the power of images, and photographing with intentionality can help us make an impact. Whether you are creating a story for publication or sharing a moment with a friend, each photograph has the potential to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and ignite conversations. This is what makes photography worthwhile.

Conclusion: A Final Snapshot

Thanks to Our Sponsors

In addition to the generous support from Girls Who Click, this photography workshop was sponsored by Alaska Photo Treks, Subway, and the Alaska Society of Outdoor & Nature Photographers. Thank you to all who made this event possible!

The New Age of Women in Wildlife Photography

by adminJuly 28, 2024September 29, 2024 Leave a comment

The post was originally published by the Nature Photography Library written by Rylee Jensen.

Finding Your Niche

A gray wolf trots across the steamy landscape of Yellowstone National Park. In this land of fire and ice, wolves simultaneously embrace negative temperatures in the winter and navigate geyser basins where the sleeping supervolcano below the surface breathes through the Earth’s crust. Yellowstone is not only a geothermic wonder, but one of the few intact ecosystems in the contiguous United States that can support native large carnivores like wolves.

In order to survive in a variety of complex environments and coexist with their neighbors, animals must carve out their own “niche” in space and time, which refers to the unique role species occupy in their respective ecosystems. This could mean being nocturnal while everyone else is out and about during the day, or specializing in a particular diet to avoid competition for resources. For example, mesocarnivores like bobcats, coyotes, and foxes all coexist through subtle changes in diet and habitat use: bobcats prefer brushy habitat where they can avoid detection and ambush small mammals, coyotes spend time in open meadows and often scavenge from larger carnivores, and foxes lie somewhere in the middle. In this way, these three species are able to persist and share the same space without conflict.

Photographers, too, must find our own niche in this rapidly changing modern world. Social media has changed the game when it comes to visibility, networking, finding opportunities, and boosting our careers. The field is saturated with millions of photographers on apps like Instagram and Facebook, not to mention the ever-growing prevalence of AI infiltrating artistic spaces. Wildlife photography, in particular, is a specialized sphere of visual media that comes with its own set of challenges; it can be physically demanding, mentally taxing, and expensive with gear and travel costs. It often seems like there are no images that haven’t already been captured before, or “secret gem” locations that have not already been revealed. Additionally, women in this field often encounter hurdles that highlight the unique reality we face on a regular basis compared to our male colleagues:

– Planning out travel routes and backup plans carefully when shooting solo.

– Trying to appear agreeable and not “high maintenance” to senior colleagues who make us uncomfortable.

– “Did you really take those photos?” being asked of us at every art market we participate in.

Standing Out From the Crowd

So how do up-and-coming female wildlife photographers stand out from the crowd?

Photographers serious about selling prints for income must become marketing gurus, video editors, social media managers, and accountants all in one. We need to simultaneously follow social media trends but also express our own style and personality through the photos we capture in order for our work to get noticed. For multifaceted artist Alyson Yates, this unspoken rule never sat well. She expressed:

“My photography covers a wide range of subjects and conceptual ideas, which has made it challenging for me to build a cohesive body of work on the Internet. I intend to continue working in multiple different themes and mediums, and I hope to eventually cultivate an online presence that accurately represents my photography.”

Alyson’s work centers around misunderstood species like bats, as well as abstract feminist themes and ideas. Artistic influence can be greatly enriched by the support of other photographers that serve as mentors and role models. In Alyson’s case, the vision for many of her own photos is drawn from the work of photographers like Art Wolfe, whose “impossibly vibrant colors and cinematic compositions” exposed her to the world of art and photography early on.

Another one of Alyson’s inspirations, Morgan Heim, also serves as a mentor for wildlife photographer Jessica Hadley. Jessica is a bear technician who spent the last six years working in national parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and now Grand Teton. She spends her days documenting human-wildlife interactions throughout the park, from “bear jams” to food-conditioned foxes. However, her career path did not start off on a bright note:

“I had a bad experience in my first year of college when a photography professor told me to stop taking pictures of nature. Thankfully, I didn’t listen.”

More recently, to overcome self-doubt and lack of inspiration, Jessica says she took a step back and studied the work of other photographers like Jen Guyton, Steven Gnam, and Corey Arnold; this allowed her to focus on the bigger picture in her work moving forward.

My own career has taken many twists and turns over the years. I am formally trained as a scientist, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Ecology & Management in 2019 and currently finishing up a Master’s degree in Biology this year. I have published research projects on killer whale behavior, carnivore interactions, seabird mortality, and—soon—about African herbivore gut microbiomes. However, when I decided to take a step toward pursuing photography as a career in 2019, I was clueless. I knew little about camera gear, manual camera techniques, or the social media game. Due to my nomadic seasonal work around the country, I also did not have a physical community to grow and learn from. Then I discovered an organization known as Girls Who Click in 2022.

Ambassadors

Girls Who Click is made up entirely of female photography ambassadors and mentors from around the world with the aim of encouraging other women to develop a lifelong passion for capturing—and striving to protect—the natural world. Alyson, Jessica, and I all joined as photography ambassadors with this organization in the past few years.

“It is easy to feel inspired when you are surrounded by supportive peers with great creative achievements,” says Alyson.

New ambassadors with the program are paired up with mentors during their first year to boost their career goals and home in on project ideas. This community has profoundly shaped my own outlook on the impact my photography can have and expanded my professional network in a way I never would have dreamed. Jessica adds that:

“The Girls Who Click community has fueled my confidence and inspired me to continue pursuing a photography career.”

With an inclusive community like this comes fresh, creative ideas for showcasing our work, encouragement during tough times, and confidence building with every meeting. Learning from diverse perspectives and finding commonality with other photographers rather than competition allows us to open ourselves up to endless possibilities. In this way, it is much easier to see the bigger picture when we inevitably end up with tunnel vision at times. For instance, one of my long-term goals is to delve more into the world of photojournalism and use my background in science to communicate important conservation stories to a general audience through visual media. Alyson hopes to exhibit her work at a Portland gallery where she is based, and is currently building up a new body of work centered around “feminist themes in the Internet age, with a focus on body image, sexualization, power dynamics, and domestic feminine ideals in contemporary media.” Jessica strives to combine her work with bears in the National Parks with her images on human-wildlife interactions into a final, published product, which she calls her passion project.

Conclusions

Despite the challenges that come with breaking into photography in such a hectic world, young women like us are finding our niche every day and motivating others to do the same. Finding role models and community early on can provide an enormous source of support and encouragement as we navigate the jungles of social media and discover our creative edge.

Jessica advises aspiring photographers to apply for everything and to not be afraid to contact other photographers who inspire you. Additionally, throughout my own career, I have personally strived to never lose my curiosity and to always pursue what brings me joy. There is always a story waiting to be told and, in the end, you will be amazed at how far you’ve come.

Rylee Jensen is a 27-year old biologist, guide, and wildlife photographer. Her early role models included the likes of Steve Irwin, Saba Douglas-Hamilton, and Ingrid Visser who inspired her to pursue a career in wildlife biology; she earned B.S. in Wildlife Ecology & Management from Utah State University in 2019 and is finishing up a M.S. in Biology from Northern Michigan University. Throughout this journey, she also naturally gravitated toward capturing the natural world through the lens of a camera. Rylee’s photography has earned her accolades such as the grand prize of PetaPixel’s Wild Personalities contest in 2022, an ambassadorship with Girls Who Click in 2022, and a project role with NANPA’s College Scholar Program in 2023. Her long-term ambition is to build a career in scientific communication and craft a photography portfolio centered around local wildlife conservation issues.

Meet Rylee Jensen (pictured above), a passionate photographer and ambassador for Girls Who Click—the empowering organization, founded by Suzi Eszterhas, dedicated to bridging the gender gap in nature photography for young women aged 13-30. In this guest blog, Rylee shares her insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating social media, tackling gender biases, and finding her unique niche as a photographer. Explore how mentorship and community has empowered Rylee and her peers to break barriers, pursue their passions, and shape conservation narratives through visual storytelling. Throughout the blog, Rylee has handpicked imagery from Nature Picture Library’s female photographers, spotlighting the groundbreaking work of women who are reshaping the landscape of a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Meet the 2024 Ambassadors!

by adminJanuary 12, 2024September 29, 2024 Leave a comment

We are thrilled to introduce the stunning roster of our 2024 Girls Who Click Ambassadors! Following an intensive selection process, we’ve carefully curated a collection of 16 outstanding New Ambassadors and welcomed 22 Continuing Ambassadors from a pool of over 160 fiercely competitive applicants. These adept photographers and videographers, representing diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, add a kaleidoscope of perspectives to our program.

Beyond their technical prowess and dedication to launching their professional photography careers, these creatives are also champions of conservation. We invite you to explore their captivating portfolios and follow their artistic journeys. Supporting these emerging talents not only nurtures their development but also fosters optimism for a luminous future.

Join us in applauding these exceptional ambassadors.

Alejandra Rendón, Spain
Alicia Hayden, England
Anna Sapp, U.S.A.
Andrea Sherry, U.S.A.
Beth Hotchkiss, U.S.A.
Chelsea Mayer, U.S.A.
Emma Balunek, U.S.A.
Hallie Cowan, U.S.A.
Jo Davenport, England
Karabo Magakane , South Africa
Katie Waddington, France
Laia Soler, Norway
Lana Tannir, Germany
Lea Milde, Germany
Maddy Rifka Brunt, U.S.A.
Mya Van Woundenberg, Canada
Neo Mokoena, South Africa
Nicole Holman, Canada
Ningjing Wang, England
Rylee Jensen, U.S.A.
Sadie Hine, U.S.A.
Viktoria Pezzei, Germany

A Fruitful Year Ahead

Each Ambassador has been thoughtfully matched with one of our Partner Photographers, forming a dynamic duo poised to hopefully help take their careers to new heights. These amazing individuals, the backbone of the Girls Who Click Ambassador Program, generously contributes their expertise and mentorship, for which we are profoundly grateful.

Beyond personalized guidance, Ambassadors gain access to Girls Who Click’s nature photography workshops and portfolio reviews, chances to utilize the GWC Social Media platform for their own work, and peer-to-peer connection all over the world in Ambassador-Only virtual meet-ups.

Many of our Continuing Ambassadors, some with us since 2021, will continue into leadership roles, embodying the mission of Girls Who Click.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our program sponsor, Gitzo, who are ensuring our Ambassadors receive cutting-edge equipment, hopefully helping them in the field.

Gitzo and Girls Who Click: Empower young generations of female nature photographers

by adminOctober 1, 2023September 29, 2024 Leave a comment

This post was originally published by Gitzo.

Girls Who Click

Gitzo has always been committed to nurturing and inspiring nature photographers to grow and take a step further. By collaborating with Girls Who Click, Gitzo extends its mission to empower the next generation of female wildlife photographers.

Beyond broadening Gitzo’s horizons, this partnership also paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse world within nature and wildlife photography.

Nature photography is a way to celebrate and explore the beauty of nature. It’s for anyone with a curiosity and passion for the natural world, who likes creative storytelling and being outdoors. Now, picture a nature photographer out in the field, skillfully planning their shot and
maneuvering their gear.

What do they look like? Who do you see? What kinds of stories are they telling about nature?

The field of nature and wildlife photography is disproportionately male, and far fewer women than men enter wildlife photo competitions. What factors contribute to this phenomenon, why are the numbers of female wildlife photographers limited, and most importantly, is there potential for change soon?

There is nothing inherently gendered about the skills or traits required to be a nature photographer, so why aren’t there more women? While this issue is complex with no simple solution, that doesn’t mean nature photography can’t become a more balanced field. Nature is incredibly diverse and the voices telling the stories of nature should reflect that. That’s where Girls Who Click comes in.

About Girls Who Click

Girls Who Click is a nonprofit organization founded by Suzi Eszterhas, an award-winning wildlife photographer, that is inspiring and empowering girls to develop a lifelong passion for framing the nature around them and striving to protect it. Girls Who Click partners with full-time working professional photographers from around the world to offer free workshops, physical and online, for girls ages 13-18. It also runs an annual mentorship program, the “Ambassador Program”, for young female conservation photographers and videographers ages 16-30.

The Mission

Girls Who Click’s philosophy is based on the real-life experiences of nature photographers in the industry leading free photography workshops for teen girls, ages 13-18. In-person workshops include a full day of photography instruction, combined with hands-on practice in the field. For photographers who can’t make it to one of the in-person locations, Girls Who Click hosts frequent online workshops, which are accessible worldwide. All the workshops are led by Girls Who Click partner photographers able to share knowledge, experience, and advice about nature photography, from technical skills to artistry and professional development.

Through this collaboration, Gitzo aims to empower and inspire young women to pursue their passion for framing the natural world, breaking down barriers and stereotypes that may have hindered their participation in the past.

By supporting Girls Who Click, Gitzo is not only championing gender equality in photography but also ensuring that fresh perspectives and talents thrive, enriching the field of wildlife and conservation photography for years to come.

Ambassadors Mentor Program

Girls Who Click believes that the perspectives behind the lens should be as various as the nature in front of it. This is the reason behind the Ambassador Program, a hands-on mentorship project for female nature photographers and videographers ages 16-30 who seek to take their art to the next level. Ambassadors come from all over the world and different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

What makes the Ambassador Program unique? How does Gitzo enter the game?

Each Ambassador is paired up with a mentor based on their professional and personal goals.
During the year-long mentorship, they will virtually meet with their mentor to
develop their portfolio, gain key insights on breaking into the industry, and cultivate a network
of supportive peers in the photography industry.

Renowned for its commitment to excellence, Gitzo has gone above and beyond by offering top-tier professional gear tailored to support photographers during the educational program, thereby paving the way for their aspirations. Are you curious about Ambassadors’ works?
Keep following us on social media to stay up to date on the partnership.

Want to be an Underwater Photographer? Here’s How to Start!

by adminJanuary 5, 2023January 5, 2023 1 Comment

Written by Chelsea Mayer

As a photographer, I was always intrigued by the ocean. However, the thought of getting into the water and submerging my precious camera stopped me in my tracks. Not only does underwater photography require a new set of skills, but it’s a whole series of expenses on top of the already costly field of photography. That being said, it’s also the most fun I’ve had with a camera! If you’ve ever wanted to get into underwater photography but were unsure where to start, please read on, because this article is for you.

The first step to being an underwater photographer actually has nothing to do with photography: it’s becoming comfortable in the ocean. This doesn’t just mean swimming, but using specialized gear that will allow you to see below the surface. For some, that might mean using a mask and snorkel and staying shallow. For others, it might mean freediving, where you swim down on a single breath hold. And then there’s the activity that allows you to stay underwater the longest: scuba diving! For any of these activities, it should go without saying that you must be confident in the water. While I recommend taking a freediving course with a professional, if it’s something that interests you, let’s focus on the logistics of becoming a scuba diver and taking photos on scuba.

Finding the right scuba mask for your face shape is really important – it’s your window to the underwater world! – Photo by Joel Wilson.

To put it very simply, scuba diving allows you to breathe underwater for long periods of time from a portable air cylinder. That’s why scuba diving absolutely requires training from a professional. You can access scuba training through dive shops, which should have a reputable dive instruction organization that they’re affiliated with. This means that the shop offers scuba lessons designed by a professional agency and carried out by an instructor certified to teach that agency’s standards. Depending on where you live, you may have a scuba shop nearby, but if not, many people travel in order to complete their training.

During your entry level certification, you’ll learn the principles of diving through both written and practical instruction. Most classes begin in a pool, and end in a larger body of water like a lake or the ocean. Once you’ve completed this type of course, you’ll receive a certification card, which will enable you to rent scuba gear from shops, obtain air cylinders, and dive in open water without an instructor (but always with a buddy!). Many agencies offer certifications to children as young as ten, though these junior certifications will likely have other restrictions attached.

Scuba diving lessons can be expensive and not within someone’s budget. Don’t panic yet; there are scholarships available! The Women Divers Hall of Fame offers grants every year for basic dive training, and a quick internet search may illuminate other financial assistance available in your area. You can also look for grants through the websites of professional dive organizations or ask your local dive shop. In some cases, you may even be able to get certified through your high school or college.

While you don’t have to buy your own scuba equipment right away, renting gear over and over can become more expensive than buying it. Investing in quality gear and taking good care of it will ensure that it lasts a long time. If your budget is limited, keep a sharp eye out for secondhand gear on social media. Many people resell gear that has hardly been used, so you can often get quality items at a discount if you are persistent in checking these sites. Always have any used gear serviced by a professional scuba shop before you trust your life with it

So you’ve gotten scuba certified and you have your own gear- now what? Resist the temptation to take a camera with you immediately and practice your scuba skills! Building confidence and comfortability underwater should be your first priority, and you don’t want to make a mistake because you’ve introduced a camera before you were ready. You may even want to take additional scuba courses before you get to this point. Once you’re very confident in your diving abilities, you can add a camera.

Perhaps you already own a nice camera, and want to but an underwater housing for it. I wouldn’t recommend this as a fist step. A proper dive housing for a professional camera may be more expensive than the camera itself! This is because the housing must be able to withstand huge amounts of water pressure for sustained periods of time in order to keep your camera dry and safe. These housings are vacuum sealed and rated to depths well beyond what you would be diving, and are not to be confused with “waterproof” housings. While “waterproof” may sound like you can take it scuba diving, you will want to look closely at the technical specs, because waterproof may really mean that it allows you to briefly submerge your camera at the surface. This is not something you will want to cut corners on, as a failure of you housing can ruin both the housing and your camera.

With this in mind, most beginner underwater photographers start with a simpler and less expensive underwater camera setup while they master the principles of diving and underwater photography.

The Olympus TG-6 is a very popular entry level option. On its own, it has a depth rating of 50 feet, but you should purchase the dive housing for this small camera, changing its depth rating to 150 feet. This camera will shoot 4k video and 12 megapixel photos, and has a built in 25-100mm lens with a macro function. This allows you to shoot in a variety of styles and figure out what style of underwater photography you like.

The GoPro Hero series is another great option. These cameras shoot video and photos, are super compact, and can be used with a wide variety of mounts and accessories. Just remember to buy the protective housing, which will allow you to take it to depths of 192ft (far deeper that you’ll go on a recreational scuba dive!).

If you have a decent camera on your smartphone, this can be another great beginner underwater camera! Companies like Sealife sell housings for smartphones that make them waterproof up to 130 feet. If you’re interested in experimenting with artificial light to enhance your photos, Sealife even offers trays with lights attached, which also make it easier to hold your phone underwater.

Now that you’ve got your camera, go play! You’ll probably find, as I did, that adding a new element to your diving makes it feel like you’re on your first dive all over again. That’s okay! Take your time, stay clam, adjust to the new feelings, and don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t come together right away.

The best natural light is in shallow water! Check out the pretty light dapple on this octopus.

You’ll also discover that underwater photography is completely different from shooting on land; it’s almost like learning photography all over again. Water absorbs light, so everything is much darker. In fact, many underwater photographers choose to use strobes with their professional setups, a complicated subject that deserves its own article. If you’re working with a beginner’s setup, and no lights, you’ll quickly realize that only shallower subjects are illuminated enough to get a decent photograph. This is also okay! Working with natural light is a good place to start while you learn.

Waiting in front of a cool background can be rewarding! The colors of this parrotfish stand out better against the brown of the corals than the blue of the water.

Water also distorts things, so you’ll find that you may need to be much closer to a subject than what you’re accustomed to. This often means waiting patiently for a fish to swim right in front of your lens, where you’ll have only a second to snap the perfect frame. Sometimes I’ll wait by a particularly pretty rock or kelp clearing until a fish comes by, because I think it will make a nice background. As you go out and experiment, you’ll find other strategies that work for you, and that just takes practice.

Once you’ve mastered your basic underwater camera, you may decide to upgrade to a professional camera and dive housing, along with a set of strobes. Just like with scuba gear, you can get a good deal on something lightly used if you look hard enough. Regularly check dive forums, social media and your local scuba shop, because people are likely to resell something relatively unused for a much better price than new gear.

Hopefully, this has given you some clarity on a field where there is so much new information to absorb. If you’re still nervous about the prospect of going underwater, please know that this is totally normal! The key is to be patient. Be patient with your scuba skills, be patient with mastering underwater photography, be patient waiting until the time is right before you finally purchase your long-awaited professional dive camera setup. The payoff for that patience is the privilege of visiting and documenting places that most humans will never get to see. What could be more worthwhile than that?

Thank you for reading!

Written by Chelsea Mayer

Chelsea Mayer (She/Her) grew up in 
Huntington Beach, California, and 
attended UCLA’s School of Theater, 
Film and Television. After working 
on film sets, she took a job with 
a whale watching company as a 
photographer and deckhand, and she 
fell in love with wildlife 
photography. Wanting to explore as much of the sea as 
possible, Chelsea earned her 100 ton captain’s license, 
and then took up scuba diving and became a divemaster. 
She continues to work on boats as a divemaster, captain 
and naturalist, in addition to working as an underwater 
photographer.

Meet the 2022 Ambassadors!

by adminNovember 20, 2021November 20, 2021 Leave a comment

We are thrilled to introduce you to the 2022 Girls Who Click Ambassadors. This group was selected from over 160 competitive applicants and includes 14 Ambassadors who are new to the program and 14 Continuing Ambassadors. They are young, talented photographers and videographers that come from many different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Along with a special drive to launch their professional photography career, they are also fierce advocates for conservation. Please take the time to look at their work and follow them. They are a worthy investment and they make us more hopeful than ever about the future. WOW.

The Ambassador Program is one-of-a-kind: a professional mentorship that launches diverse women and non-binary individuals into nature photography, an industry that is heavily male-dominated and white. Girls Who Click is committed to making changes happen.

Click on the links below to learn more about each amazing Ambassador!

Alexis Wangare Wachira, Kenya
Elizabeth (Lilah) McCormick, USA
Emily Harwitz, USA
Fiona Wardle, New Zealand
Halie Saferstein, USA
Karabo Magakane, South Africa
Lana Tannir, Germany

Liseth Tapasco, Colombia
Maddy Brunt, USA
Mariana Rivera Uribe, Colombia
Queen Manyike, South Africa
Sitara Karthikeyan, India
Sofia Lopez, USA
Tay Belcher, Kenya

2021 Continuing Ambassadors

We would also like to re-introduce you to our Continuing Ambassadors who are staying with the program to continue developing their work! The Ambassadors exemplify Girls Who Click’s mission and values and have demonstrated leadership and passion in the Ambassador Program.

Daphne P, USA
Stephanie Foote, UK/Kenya
Evelyn Smalley, UK
Samantha Stephens, Canada
Emma Balunek, USA
Lianna Nixon, USA
Lea Milde, Germany
Aishwarya Sridhar, India

Beth Hochkiss, USA
Kate Vylet ,USA
Angelica Mills, South Africa
Sadie Hine, USA
Jo Davenport, UK
Chelsea Mayer, USA
Alena Ebeling-Schuld, Canada
Katie Waddington, France

Each Ambassador has been paired with an established professional photographer who will help her take the next step in her career. These exceptional Girls Who Click partner photographers are the backbone of the Ambassador Program and we are deeply indebted to them for their mentoring and generosity.

In addition to mentorship, Ambassadors have access to all Girls Who Click nature photography workshops. The Ambassador Program is sponsored by ThinkTank, LEE Filters, and Wild Idea Lab, who will provide special benefits to Ambassadors.

Thank you for being a member of the Girls Who Click community. If you love what we do, please consider donating to support these programs!

Q&A with GWC Ambassadors (Part 5)

by adminOctober 16, 2021March 8, 2022 1 Comment

Welcome to Part 5 of our GWC Ambassador series! In this post, we feature three more talented photographers in the program. Read on to learn more about their inspiring work.

Make sure to check out the rest of the series on our blog.

Featured in this blog:

**Evelyn Smalley** (mentor: Erin Ranney)

**Samantha Stephens** (mentor: Morgan Heim)

**Emma Balunek** (mentor: Jaymi Heimbuch)

Evelyn Smalley

This picture was taken by one of my closest friends in an attempt to get my first “headshot”, before Erin introduced me on her Instagram. This picture highlights how awkward I am in front of the camera compared to behind it. As a fairly introverted character I really struggle to put myself out there, a fear I am desperately trying to overcome before the inevitable freelance life arrives!

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

After having the wonderful opportunity to experience Southern Africa at a young age, I knew for my sanity I needed to spend the rest of my life working in the remote places of the world surrounded by nature. It therefore seemed logical to apply to the BSc Zoology in Manchester’s concrete jungle. Whilst day-to-day life is pretty nature deprived, I have been able to travel across the world for various field courses and placements, teaching myself how to navigate a camera along the way.

Only now after four years have I realised I actually have an aversion to everything statistical. Whilst we would be nowhere without science, it’s actually its communication I’m interested in. Instead of being cocooned in a laboratory pumping out research papers, through the lens of a camera I want to share inspiring stories from the front lines of conservation. The visual medium is a formidable, emotive tool that when wielded effectively can galvanise audiences to protect the natural world and the well-being of our species.

2. Why did you apply to the Ambassador Program? What are you hoping to achieve?

I applied to the Girls Who Click Ambassador Program because it’s such an ingenious, empowering initiative that I really wanted to be a part of. But also because I had never had a professional opinion of my photography. It’s lovely when your friends and family give you compliments, but to be accepted onto this program alongside such astonishing women was just insane. Through this mentorship, not only am I hoping to grow as a person and storyteller, but also to build a supportive network of like-minded women who are driven to protect the natural world through the visual medium.

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you?

My mentor is the badass wildlife camera operator Erin Ranney – who can carry her own kit, thank you. Just as she followed in the footsteps of Justine Evans and Sophie Darlington, my dream is to follow in hers. Erin has provided invaluable advice from camera settings to the importance of storytelling. Through our chats Erin has given me much needed confidence in my ability, because of her I actually believe I can become a wildlife filmmaker.

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

As part of my final year dissertation, I chose a science communication project. For this I had the amazing opportunity to create my first film. The Salamander’s Saviour is a short documentary about the conservation of a critically endangered Mexican salamander by a convent of nuns. Whilst the process was slightly stressful due to COVID restrictions and a complete lack of experience, I’m very proud of the finished product. As I am no longer a student and now just unemployed, I am currently looking for any jobs vaguely wildlife or media-related before applying for UWE’s MA Wildlife Filmmaking.

See Evelyn’s work here.

Samantha Stephens

This image, titled Nature’s Pitfall, is one of my favourite images I’ve created so far. First, it involved some technical challenges related to figuring out how to light and compose this scene creatively. It’s something that I photographed over and over again, and I am proud of the result of that process. Additionally, it has captured people’s curiosity. Curiosity is such an important element of the scientific process and so when I photograph stories of scientific research, I try to inspire that same feeling in the viewer. I hope that I can create images that make people ask, “what is going on here?!” and then be intrigued to delve further into the story.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Growing up science was my favourite subject in school. Back then, I didn’t realize that there was any other way to turn that passion into a career aside from the obvious choice to pursue an education in science. While studying biology, I became much more interested in communicating science, rather than conducting research. When I heard about the Environmental Visual Communication program, a post-graduate program that teaches those with a background in science to become visual storytellers, I knew right away that that was the career path I wanted to pursue.

I am currently based in Ottawa, Canada, where I grew up, and the majority of my photographic work focuses on wildlife research and conservation local to this area. For the past few years, I have been primarily based at the Algonquin Wildlife Research Station, located in Ontario’s iconic Algonquin Provincial Park, where I’ve been documenting various wildlife research projects on turtles, salamanders, wolves and small mammals.

2. Why did you apply to the Ambassador Program? What are you hoping to achieve?

GWC is such an important initiative. I think if something like GWC had existed when I was younger, I would have recognized photography as a career path earlier in my journey. I applied to GWC because I was keen to join a supportive group of women who are empowering each other to become the best visual storytellers we can be. The opportunity to be mentored by a woman photographer who can not only help with the craft of photography itself, but also provide advice and share experiences related to navigating a career in this field is an invaluable opportunity. There’s a lot of variability in what a career in nature/conservation photography can look like, which is exciting, but can also make it difficult to navigate. I hope one day, when I’m further along in my own career, I can be a mentor to a future GWC Ambassador!

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you so far?

My mentor is Morgan Heim. I’ve admired Morgan’s work since I first considered switching from a career in wildlife research to one in photography. Morgan’s work has led to tangible conservation outcomes, and that’s something I aim for with my own projects. I have been working on some long-term photography projects that I’m able to go back and shoot again and again, so Morgan has been helping me think about how I can photograph these stories in different, creative ways and how to build a narrative. She is also helping me learn how to pitch this work to editors.

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

As I write this, I’m currently in the field, at the Algonquin Wildlife Research Station. I’m continuing to document wildlife research projects that take place here and I’m excited to start sharing some of that work soon!

See more of Samantha’s work here.

Emma Balunek

I love this photo because my friends, my dog, and I were hanging out in a beautiful aspen grove in Colorado. My dog and I are happiest when we are exploring outside with a camera, so it is a fitting photo.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Growing up I spent almost every weekend outdoors catching newts and fireflies, planting trees, and putting up bird boxes to help restore our family property for wildlife. My affinity for nature continued when I moved to Fort Collins, Colorado to study ecosystem science and sustainability. I now work for the Colorado Natural Heritage Program doing field work to conserve Colorado’s ecosystems and species that call them home. Colorado is such a diverse state with mountains on the west and plains on the east. I love being able to go hiking in the mountains and well as explore the plains.

The turning point for me into conservation photography was on a Kids Conservation Photography Workshop in Ecuador. Our project for the trip was to create a photo story. I learned that I could combine two things I loved: conservation and photography. Since then, I have been improving my photography storytelling skills by working on projects near home, specifically with prairie dogs.

2. Why did you apply to the Ambassador Program? What are you hoping to achieve?

I applied to GWC to connect with other women photographers. My mentor has helped me work through story ideas and solve problems that arise. Being a part of GWC has allowed me to build new connections with similar people.

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you?

My mentor is Jaymi Heimbuch. She is the perfect mentor for me because she loves conservation photography and knows how to help others improve. Jaymi has been helpful in talking through ideas about my projects and other photography related topics.

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

I am working on a camera trap project in the plains focused on a rock pile where a variety of wildlife comes, like golden eagles, badgers, coyotes, and swift foxes. A new addition to my story is a timelapse camera to document what the wildlife experience in a year. I am excited to turn this project into a science communication master’s program in the near future! I am looking forward to learning more about how to communicate science effectively through photos and videos and building photography into my career.

See more of Emma’s work here.

Thanks for reading!

Responses have been edited for length and clarity

Written by Alice Sun

Growing up, Alice’s dream was to become a National Geographic photographer. This passion led her to spend much of her high school years photographing and sharing stories of wildlife in her own backyard, which earned her a spot in the 2016 NANPA High School Scholarship Program. She then went on to pursue a degree in environmental biology and a graduate certificate in environmental visual communication, sharpening her skills and building a foundation for a career in visual storytelling. Today, she is a freelance science communicator and conservation storyteller based in Vancouver, Canada. Inspiring young people to pursue the same dream she had is something that Alice is passionate about, and why she’s extremely be on the Girls Who Click team! Visit Alice’s website (alicesun.ca) to see the stories she has told over the years.

Q&A with GWC Ambassadors (Part 4)

by adminJune 13, 2021March 8, 2022 Leave a comment

Welcome to Part 4 of our GWC Ambassador series! In this post, we feature four more talented photographers in this program, learn about their inspiring work, and talk about some of the challenges in nature photography.

Make sure to check out the rest of the series on our blog.

Featured in this blog:

**Stephanie Foote** (mentor: Katie Schuler)

**Jo Davenport** (mentor: Esther Horvath)

**Tamara Blazquez** (former mentor: Diana Caballero Alvarado)

Stephanie Foote

I am happiest when I am out on adventures and have my camera in hand. This photo, taken by photojournalist Sofi Lundin, shows me on my recent assignment to Uganda where I documented the voyage of the Flipflopi, a boat made from recycled plastic.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a visual storyteller especially interested in projects with a focus on wildlife conservation, ecosystem restoration and human stories about our relationship with nature. Natural history is a subject that captures my imagination like no other and I cannot remember a time when I have not been filled with a sense of wonder and fascination for the living things we share our planet with. I first picked up a camera in primary school. As a kid who felt like they didn’t really fit in, using a camera was like my key to the world. It gave me the confidence to pursue my interest in nature.  

When I was in college, I got my heart set on a career in wildlife photography and film. And in 2017, I graduated from Falmouth University with a first class bachelor’s degree in Marine and Natural History Photography. Since then I have worked on assignments with The Canid Project, Shepreth Hedgehog Hospital, the United Nations and the National Geographic Society.

My projects include photographing the critically important work of rangers on the frontline of wildlife conservation in Kyrgyzstan, documenting endemic species in the Galapagos Archipelago, filming the rescue and rehabilitation of European hedgehogs and filming the voyage of a boat made out of recycled flip flops on Lake Victoria in Uganda.

2. Why did you apply to the Ambassador Program? What are you hoping to achieve?

I applied to the Ambassador program because I struggle with imposter syndrome. I sometimes doubt my abilities and can miss out on opportunities as a result of this. Also, when you are a freelancer you need to constantly build your network and develop your skill set to maintain a steady income. Girls Who Click seemed like an excellent opportunity for both networking and professional development.

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you?

My mentor is Katie Schuler, a co-founder of Coral and Oak Studio. Katie’s films about pangolins are a huge inspiration to me and during the mentorship she has helped me to build confidence and learn new skills. Being a GWC Ambassador has allowed me to connect with a community of like-minded individuals and gain confidence in my professional life.

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

At the start of 2021, I relocated to Nairobi, Kenya for my work with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It has been a difficult time and moving abroad during a pandemic is no easy task. Like so many across the world, I am separated from my family and loved ones with no option to see them while international travel bans are in place. However, I have been extremely fortunate to relocate to such a beautiful country. Since living here I have been able to pursue lots of interesting projects close to home and learn about the fascinating Kenyan wildlife.

The next decade has been declared by the United Nations as the Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. So I am excited to be working on stories with the local community in Nairobi, where youth groups are restoring urban areas through litter picking, tree planting and creating green spaces. I am also enjoying a personal project where I have been working on documenting a local tea farm and their beautiful garden which attracts an incredible diversity of wildlife.

See Stephanie’s work here.

Lea Milde

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I´m a wildlife ecologist, conservationist, and self-taught wildlife and landscape photographer from Germany. My photography journey started back in 2013 when I went to Uganda for a 5-months internship. Right before leaving Germany, I bought my first camera so I could capture all the natural wonders of this country. I knew nothing about photography, let alone how a camera works, so I basically let my camera do the job. However, I really enjoyed taking photos, especially capturing all the wild animals.

Back in Germany, I barely touched my camera for a few years. Wildlife is not so easy to photograph in Europe, and I just moved to the Netherlands to start my career in wildlife ecology and conservation. Luckily, it was these science-related studies that brought me back to photography. Through my studies, I got an incredible chance to work with wildlife all around the world, my camera always being my loyal companion.

Eventually, I upgraded my equipment to a new set-up that took my photography to a new level! Finally, I was able to capture what fascinates me the most: wild animals in their natural habitat. Since then, I try to spend every free minute outside in order to capture everything wild; from birds in my backyard, to iconic wildlife in Africa and fascinating landscapes all over the globe.

2. Why did you apply to the Ambassador Program? What are you hoping to achieve?

Before I found out about GWC and the Ambassador program, I felt a bit lost in my photography journey. I wanted to do more with my photos, give them meaning instead of simply piling them up on my hard drive. However, I did not want to choose between a career in wildlife ecology or wildlife photography, thus I started to think about combining my two passions.

One day I was scrolling through my Instagram feed when I came across a post from GWC and the Ambassador program. That was the first time that I heard about GWC and when I started to look into the program, I knew that this would be my chance to find my right path. I also hoped to get in touch with other creative and like-minded girls from all around the world, because to be honest, my photography network was very male-dominated till then.

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you so far?

My mentor is Janet Kleyn. Janet is a professional wildlife photographer and nature and trails guide from South Africa, and she is now managing a photographic concession in Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana. People who know me know that she´s the perfect match for me. We have monthly zoom meetings, and she prepares different assignments for me each month that I can work on. For example, last month we worked on high- and low-key photography. She is challenging and motivating me every month and I’m learning so much from her. I´m really happy to have her by my side.

Also, thanks to the program I connected with so many different and talented young women from all around the world, and every single one of them is a true inspiration for me. Still can’t believe I am part of this!

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

I am currently writing my master’s thesis about how different environmental factors influence the fecundity of red kites and black kites in eastern Germany. I also landed my first proper job as an ecologist/biologist in northern Germany. So, my thesis and job are keeping me quite busy. Photography-wise I´m currently exploring my new home, especially the local nature areas, and I try to capture everything wild around here.

See more of Lea’s work here.

Jo Davenport

I took this image as part of my current project on grey seals in the UK – it shows a newborn seal pup in the centre of a carpark, having lost its mother amidst unusually high tides. This image represents the direction I aim to take my filming and photography: documenting stories of human impact on nature – both good and bad, to inspire change.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a wildlife videographer and photographer, based in London, England. I am in my element whilst surrounded by nature, observing and learning from wildlife – filming and photography enable me to share those experiences in a meaningful way.

Over the past few years, I have used my spare time to work with wildlife organisations and non-profits, showcasing their conservation efforts through images and videos. Going forward, I am determined to turn my passion for nature and visual storytelling into a full-time pursuit by creating and sharing powerful, visually compelling stories.

2. Why did you apply to the Ambassador Program? What are you hoping to achieve?

I have found that whilst working long hours in a different industry, it is easy to put your dreams and goals on the backburner and let months (or even years) pass in the blink of an eye. This pushed me to apply to the Girls Who Click program – I felt it could help guide me through the progress of achieving my goal of entering the industry professionally: helping me to focus on next steps, giving me accountability and the constructive criticism on my work that I was craving.

I wanted the opportunity to learn from experts, really push myself and to join a community of like-minded filmmakers and photographers. Girls Who Click has not disappointed!

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you?

Esther Horvath, my mentor, is an incredible inspiration – she is a documentary photographer who focuses on showcasing the work of scientists in the polar regions. The Girls Who Click team did a brilliant job of matching us up; we share a very similar background: both having had a different career path before pursuing photography/filmmaking.

Esther has been a huge source of advice and motivation for me over the last few months. I have already learnt a lot, from experimenting with different techniques, to carving out time to pursue personal projects, or invaluable advice with editing photo stories. She pushes me to be my best and I am incredibly grateful for all her support!

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

At the moment I am excited to be working on a project about conflict between fishing communities and grey seals in the UK, exploring how rapid growth of colonies – on the face of it conservation success – creates novel challenges. They are amazing creatures, and the UK is home to about 50% of the world’s grey seal population, so is crucial to their long-term survival.

See more of Jo’s work here.

Tamara Blazquez

This photograph titled “Tender Eyes” featuring a Griffon Vulture is very dear to me. Not just because of the story behind it, which was a great life experience (travelling all the way to Spain on my own for the first time, learning a lot about the Monfragüe National Park and the issues surrounding this species), but because it awarded me the 2019 Nature 1st place in the National Geographic Travel contest, as well as other awards and it has travelled the world through many media outlets.

I have also gotten emails about how people looking at my photo have started seeing vultures in a different light and are more interested in their conservation, which I think is just awesome and very humbling. It has always been a goal of mine to inspire people to act on nature’s and animals’ behalf though my photography, and I am glad I was able to spread some of the love I feel for birds of prey and vultures around the world through this photograph, and maybe helped a tiny bit in their conservation by inspiring some people.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a conservation photographer and environmental educator from Mexico City in Mexico. I have been doing photography for almost 10 years now and have always focused my work on helping nature conservation.

For the last 4 years I have been working on a project called Mexico City’s Wildlife, aimed at teaching citizens, especially children about the wildlife that still survives in the forests, wetlands and other ecosystems in Mexico City and how they can aid in their conservation. The project is done all through photography, science and workshops at schools as well as public photographic exhibitions.

I am also an environmental and animal rights activist. Right now I am a volunteer and spokesperson for the “Xochimilco Vivo” collective fighting to save one of Mexico City’s last wetlands: Xochimilco.

2. Why did you apply to GWC? What are you hoping to achieve?

I applied to GWC in hopes of getting my career out there. As a woman, and even worse a Mexican woman, making it in the nature photography industry is really complicated as work opportunities are slim or practically non-existent, and our work as women tends to be overlooked by fellow male colleagues and other institutions. So I wanted to learn how to get past these obstacles.

Sadly due to personal and economical issues, related to these hurdles and now also the pandemic, I was forced to leave the Ambassador program and photography for a while in order to help out my family financially.

3. Who is your mentor? How has the program helped you?

My mentor was Diana Caballero Alvarado. She is a conservation photographer living in Veracruz, Mexico, she has been focusing her work in giving a voice to native bees and their relationship with the environment. During the mentorships, we were working on my storytelling and other techniques. Although our ways of telling stories and making photographs are different and don’t quite “click” with one another, I learned a lot from her and will forever be grateful for this opportunity.

4. What are you up to now? Anything you’re really excited about?

Right now I have gone back to working a 9-5 job, at least for a while to get back on my feet and help out my family financially. I hope to resume photography and my projects when everything is calmer in the near future.

See more of Tamara’s work here.

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for the next installment of this series.

Responses have been edited for length and clarity

Written by Alice Sun