Under the Surface

Each summer, young explorers from Northwest Passage set out for adventures that few have experienced. They bravely submerge themselves in rivers and lakes to learn about and document underwater ecosystems. The stunning photographs that result from these expeditions have been featured in books, films, and witnessed by over one million people at exhibits around the United States. These photographs represent the kids' exploration and discovery of the underwater world, and of themselves.

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"Golden Gem" by Tatyanna, 15 | Under the Surface 2019

Under the Surface, I felt love, like the water was there to protect me and the fish were there to guard me. I got so comfortable that when it was time to get out, I did not want to. In my whole experience with underwater photography, I never was uncomfortable in the water and I always felt safe. I always had this feeling in my heart that everything was going to be okay, like my life is not a waste and I have people that want to see me succeed. I can make it through anything I put my mind to.

About Tatyanna: Hi, my name is Tatyanna. When I learned that I was going to do underwater photography with real live fish, I was so scared because I’d never done anything like that before. I live in the Twin Cities and the only fish I see are the ones I am about to eat. I never saw live fish before the first day of underwater photography. But I am telling you that something happened to me when I was in the water. It changed me for the better and it did change my life. I loved every second in the water and I will not change it for the world. That is how Under the Surface changed my life.

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Under the Surface