Over the course of two days, participants explored the art and ethics of photography, learned new skills, and were able to practice capturing the beauty around them through their unique creative perspectives. The workshop, hosted by the West Coast NEST and led by Sam Rose Phillips, offered an inspiring blend of hands-on learning and thoughtful exploration.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

Day 1 - Learning About Photography and Ethics

The workshop began at the Ucluelet Community Center with a warm welcome and introductions, setting the tone for the days ahead. With her expertise and enthusiasm, Sam guided the youth through the essentials of creating a compelling story through images. With a captivating slideshow, they explored examples of wildlife and environmental photo stories, gaining insights into how diverse images can add depth and richness to a narrative.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

Part of the discussion focused on composition, where the youth learned essential photography guidelines such as the rule of thirds, focus, and depth. Armed with this knowledge, they were then tasked with a creative assignment, sketching their dream photo on paper, and applying the composition techniques they had just learned. This exercise sparked creativity and set the stage for the hands-on exercise later in the day.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

Ethics in photography was a topic at the center of each discussion. Sam emphasized the responsibility photographers hold anytime they capture a photo. Through discussion and a series of tangible examples, participants left with a clear understanding of how to approach this work with integrity.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

The morning concluded with a visit to Big Beach, where attendees put their newfound knowledge into practice. The beach provided a stunning backdrop for capturing the essence of nature, allowing everyone to experiment with different techniques and perspectives.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

After a lunch break, the group headed out on an adventure to meet with Barb Beasley of the Association of Wetland Stewards for Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds. The youth had the opportunity to learn about the SPLAT project, and the incredible work Barb does to help protect local amphibian populations. As they followed the trail to the calm lake, they encountered juvenile tree frogs and found inspiration in the beautiful scenery, capturing the sights along the way.

Credit: Nicole Gerbrandt

Day 2 – Storytelling Through Art and Underwater Photography

The second day began outdoors at the Ucluelet Village Green, where participants were treated to a special presentation by Dennis Hetu, a nuučaan̓uł (Nuu-chah-nulth) artist and carver. Dennis spoke about his journey as an artist, the integration of traditional culture with modern technology, and how these elements inform his work. His insights enriched the participants’ understanding and appreciation of storytelling.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

Dane Stabel, the second guest speaker of the day, captivated the group with his knowledge as an underwater photographer and diver. He spoke about photography's potential as a powerful conservation tool and shared his experience documenting and removing ghost gear in Barkley Sound. His presentation emphasized the vital role photography can play in raising awareness and inspiring action for environmental causes.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips 

The group then explored the use of trail cameras and their role in storytelling. Sam explained how this non-invasive technology offers a way to document and learn from wildlife while minimizing disruption to the subjects captured. She also shared how she and her team are using them to film wolves in their upcoming documentary, Qwayaciik.

Credit: Youth Camp Participant

Participants then got to use their new understanding of photography and their skills to capture the underwater beauty found at the Ucluelet Aquarium. The group thoroughly enjoyed exploring the beautifully curated tanks of the local catch-and-release facility, finding inspiration in the diverse marine life on display. Each participant took creative photos of the stunning underwater creatures that inhabit west coast waters.

Credit: Youth Camp Participant

After a lunch break, the workshop concluded with a reflective and celebratory session where participants shared their photos with the whole group. It brought everyone together to appreciate the diverse stories captured over the two days. It was fascinating to see how, despite visiting the same locations, each participant produced unique photos that reflected their personal perspectives. No two images were alike, and each focused on different subjects, showcasing the individuality of their creative journeys.

Credit: Sam Rose Phillips

A Community of Storytellers

As we look back on this event, we celebrate the community of storytellers that was formed, the skills that were shared, and the stories that were told. Participants not only honed their technical skills but also deepened their appreciation for the ethical and cultural dimensions of photography. We can’t wait to see how these experiences will continue to inspire and shape the work of those who attended. Thank you to everyone who participated and we look forward to hosting our next Wild Stories Youth Photography Camp!

Credit: Nicole Gerbrandt

This camp is part of the West Coast NEST's initiative to connect youth with hands-on coastal science and technology experiences, led by local experts, and made possible through a grant from NSERC PromoScience.