Galapagos

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Worldwide | Monday, November 7, 2011 | flickr photos

Through traveling, I have learned that there are similarities and differences where we least expect them. But what divides us can also tie us together. Across continents, cultures that have similar appearance and dress can still be unique; wildlife can be isolated or can cross borders; cities can have the same stores and streets, yet a completely different feel.
In the Galapagos Islands, culture and people are nearly forgotten, while wildlife, ecology and nature take center stage. The thought of the Galapagos opens the imagination and desire for travel to anyone interested in wildlife and ecology, and it was no different for me. I was completely captivated by each new species. What struck me most about the archipelago was the unique terrain and inhabitants found on each island. This was a new experience for someone who has always traveled and photographed with a focus on people, culture and landscape.
Travel became a passion and a priority with my first trip outside of the United States. At that time, photography was something new, and I was learning with an Olympus SLR inherited from my father. As I traveled, the natural way to immerse myself in the place, understand it, and share it became taking photos. Each image is a unique moment in someone’s life, whether mine or the subject’s, and I love the emotion and connection I am able to convey with that image.
Photography allows me to express these things in a way that words cannot. The scholarship providing the ability to learn from and work alongside Jason Edwards would be an incredible opportunity for a new beginning in travel photography. With a passion for learning and an innate love of nature and wildlife, I’m up to the challenge.