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"I had such a fun time working with the SNAP! program. I took so many cool pictures. I chose this picture because I like how the sunlight reflected off the tree. I took this picture because I liked how the tree looked and the sun made it even better. To me, this picture shows how fascinating life is. The best thing about this picture is the sun. I had such a good time. I will never forget this experience." - SNAP Student

Student’s Nature Photography Tells Their Story

They say a photo is worth a thousand words! And students from Buffalo, New York’s McKinley High School used nature photography to express their “words” during a field trip to Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge. The “Students, Nature and Photography” (SNAP) program was held at the refuge, with help from employees from the Lower Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, as well as members of the The Great Lakes Experience, a Friends Group affiliated with the Conservation Office.

Students began the day with Refuge Friends member Bob Hazen, who introduced them  to the cameras and how to capture meaningful photos. Students put their new skills to the test at Mallard Overlook, photographing both aquatic and terrestrial animals and plants.  At the end of the day each student selected their favorite photo to have printed for them at the Refuge. In addition to seeing their photos “come to life” the students wrote brief paragraphs summarizing why they took the photo and the meaning or significance it holds for them.

Both the photographs and the written paragraphs will be displayed at the Great Lakes Experience Festival on June 18, 2011. The success of the program was made possible by all who participated, volunteered their time, and the generous donations of the Niagara Area Foundation, the WNY Foundation and Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.