Conservation Photography

Costa Rica • BOSP • 2013

What is conservation photography? One might define it as “nature photography with a mission.” Conservation photographers photograph the natural world, animals, and plants, and the people that threaten, protect, or study wildlife and ecosystems—all with the goal of advocating for specific conservation outcomes.

In August, 2013, three instructors, two course assistants, and a dozen Stanford students traveled to Costa Rica to explore both coastal and forest ecosystems. The course was sponsored by Stanford’s Bing Overseas Studies Program. We braved mosquitos, scorpions, tarantulas, and snakes, and fell in love with sea turtles, frogs, and howler monkeys. We learned how to use digital SLR cameras, process digital images, and construct photoessays about conservation. We formed friendships that will last a lifetime. And we were inspired by the determination of Costa Ricans to protect and preserve the biodiversity and complex ecosystems that enrich their country.