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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"The Lonely Pond" by Mariah, 17 | Under the Surface 2019

The water lily is like me because there is only one. At our second photo trip to Minerva Dam one water lily had grown. Nobody was completely interested in the water lilies quite like me. They were my favorite photo subject. I am a water lily, I’m one flower in a pond of lily pads, I’m floating around wondering, and trying to find my purpose.

About Mariah: Hello, my name is Mariah. I am 17 years old. I was brought to Northwest Passage because I was struggling in the community coping with the death of my Dad, I needed some treatment. I felt like everyone was praying on my downfall. I got to experience something pretty rad at Northwest Passage, underwater photography (yeah, I did that.). I never used such clear goggles before so one of my favorite things about this experience was getting to see what is under the water so clearly. Another thing I really loved about underwater photography was being able to capture what I was seeing. I will remember this experience forever because of the pictures I get to take home with me. My favorite memory occurred during an underwater photo trip at Minerva Dam. I was just flowing down the Minerva Dam like I was in the lazy river in the Dells. My mind was totally clear; all I was thinking about was the sound of the flowing water. If you ever get a chance to take underwater photographs, honestly I recommend it.

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Under the Surface