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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"Mr. Log" by Anonymous, 15 | Under the Surface 2019

I used to push away and camouflage myself in a crowd, but since coming to NWP I have pushed myself to basically wear a reflective vest. When I took this photo I was trying to get the right angle and light, but looking at this creature it told me whatever angle and whatever light I captured, my photo would be as great as I made it out to be. Lesson for life, you can make things as great as you want with a little reassurance and self-acceptance.

About the artist: I came to NWP because I lacked the skills to thrive in society. When I came to NWP the hardest thing I had to face was being so close to home, yet so far away. I like being able to discover new things and write my reflections. When I first came to NWP my thoughts on photography were a little misguided, I thought it was super easy to take a picture of a flower and throw a filter on it. When I actually went on my first photo trip, I realized it was much more than that. Seeing nature from a new perspective is very refreshing and very “eye-opening”. By far the easiest way to remember IANL would be the memories and photo reflections. My favorite memory of nature photography was when I took a picture of a luring mussel, my staff were so excited and I really felt good at what I was doing.

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Under the Surface