The Light and the Wildlife of Sanibel Island, Florida

My Scholarship entry - Sanibel Island, Florida

USA | Monday, November 24, 2014 | 5 photos

I've had a camera in my hand for as long as I could hold one, beginning with a bright blue Fisher-Price Kodak 110 in the early 80s. When I wasn't taking photos, I was reading-- Ranger Rick, Nat Geo, the encyclopedia. I loved learning, especially about nature. Through summer camp and Girl Scouts, these two loves merged, generating album upon album, filled with shots of wildlife and the sky. Over the years, taking photos shaped how I saw the world-- light, lines, color, shadows. Now, my camera is like a part of my body, an extension of my heart. When I travel, everything is heightened, and I love to capture that feeling for others. Over the years, friends and family have encouraged me to take a leap and pursue photography professionally. I've kept the dream tucked in my pocket, but I've lacked a mentor and, especially, the confidence to turn my passion into a profession. Assisting Jason would provide an incredible kick-in-the-butt, an unparalleled opportunity to hone my skills and learn how to behave and think like a pro. In return, I'd hope to contribute photos that tell unique stories, inspire awe, and elevate the public's understanding of our role in complex, fragile ecosystems.