“Flowers” by Rheannon Hill
Invaluable connections can be created through photography, especially when it captures a chance to see wildlife upclose.
Our friends at the Ding Darling Wildlife Society recently announced the winners of their eighth annual High School Photography Contest at the Refuge.
Students from 19 different Southwest Florida schools submitted 179 images for judging.
First place went to an image titled “Flowers” by Rheannon Hill from Lehigh Senior High.
“This photo is stunningly beautiful,” said wildlife photographer David Jeffrey, one of the contest judges. “It’s subtle, the depth of field is great, and the composition is really well done. The lighting is also very subtle, yet the colors are beautiful. It makes me want to know what type of flower this is.”
Judges and contest coordinators expressed great difficulty in narrowing down the choices. “It always amazes me, the quality of photos we get from these young adults,” said Sierra Hoisington, who coordinates the contest. “We marvel at the unique perspectives and angles.”
Added Birgie Miller, DDWS executive director. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to reach an age group that often falls through the cracks of conservation education.”
To see the winning images online, click here!
