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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"Mussel Releasing Glochidia" by Jaden, 16 | Under the Surface 2014

This is how mussels reproduce. They lure fish to eat this fake worm and when the fish gets close, the mussel releases its glochidia, which gets in the gills of fish. These are baby mussels, which then eventually fall out of the gills and grow up to be adult mussels.

About Jaden: "My name is Jaden and I'm 16 years old and from Marshfield, WI. I came to Northwest Passage because for the past few years I've struggled with drugs and addiction. Before coming here I overdosed twice within a week and was close to death. One day I hope to live in Miami and be a welder and eventually become an underwater welder. I also hope to design my own clothing line. Underwater photography for me is an escape from everything else. Under the water, it's a whole different world and it's really peaceful and all I have to worry about is taking it all in. It also gives me the chance to share the pictures with people who never see that kind of stuff."

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Under the Surface