Empowering Student Sports Photographers: Stanley Park’s Visual Storytelling Workshop
Unlocking the Power of Visual Storytelling
In the heart of Stanley Park, a haven for urban wildlife and nature enthusiasts, a group of aspiring student photographers gathered to embark on a transformative journey. The Girls Who Click (GWC) Nature Photography and Conservation Workshop, hosted by award-winning photographer Gunjan Menon, offered these young visionaries a unique opportunity to hone their skills and discover the power of visual storytelling.
The workshop, held in collaboration with Stanley Park High School, was designed to inspire and empower the next generation of conservation photographers. Gunjan, a National Geographic Explorer and conservation filmmaker, led the participants through a day filled with hands-on learning, practical tips, and a deep dive into the art of capturing impactful images.
“We wanted to host this workshop to help young girls learn the basics of nature photography hands-on and learn what it takes to become conservation storytellers,” Gunjan explains. “We encouraged BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth to join us, and thanks to Girls Who Click, Shelley Khunkhun, and Beyond Premieres, we were able to provide cameras for those who didn’t have access, breaking down any barriers to participation.”
Embracing the Frame: Discovering the Art of Observation
The workshop began with an invitation to look at the world through a new lens – the camera. Gunjan encouraged the students to shift their perspective and start thinking like photographers, framing the natural beauty that surrounded them in Stanley Park.
“We began by looking at the world around us through this ‘frame’, encouraging the girls to start thinking like photographers,” Gunjan recalls. “We then moved on to the technical aspects, covering shot sizes, composition, and framing, encouraging the girls to experiment with different angles and become comfortable with their camera settings.”
As the students ventured forth, they quickly discovered that the art of photography is not just about technical prowess, but also about keen observation and the ability to see the world in a fresh, captivating way.
Capturing the Elusive: Patience and Persistence in Wildlife Photography
The students’ first major challenge came when they set out to photograph the elusive birdlife of Stanley Park. Guided by the expertise of Melissa Hafting, a wildlife ecologist and the founder of BC Young Birders, the group embarked on a bird walk, eager to capture the park’s feathered inhabitants.
“Melissa’s passion for birds is contagious, and she is renowned and loved as a bird expert in British Columbia,” Gunjan says. “The girls soon turned their lenses to the cool birdlife in the park, capturing stunning and rare moments—some holding a camera for the first time.”
Patience and persistence became key as the students tried to spot and photograph the elusive Northern Waterthrush, a bird that had been sighted in the area. While the bird proved difficult to capture, the group’s determination and excitement only grew as they witnessed other avian wonders, such as the Black-throated Gray Warbler and the playful flocks of Bushtits.
Crafting Compelling Visual Stories
After the bird walk, the students regrouped to explore what makes a strong, impactful visual story. Gunjan challenged them to select one bird species and capture its story through a series of photographs, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of the birds’ natural behavior.
“The task was to pick one bird species and capture its story through a series of photos. But being mindful of the birds’ natural behaviour was key,” Gunjan explains. “The big moment came when Naomi photographed the elusive Northern Waterthrush bobbing its tail by the muddy banks—a ‘lifer’ for all the girls.”
The students’ dedication and creativity shone through as they worked to craft their photo stories. From the captivating sequence of a Green Heron hunting and catching its prey to the clever perspectives on Canada Geese, the young photographers demonstrated a keen eye for storytelling and a genuine passion for their subjects.
Fostering a Supportive Community
Throughout the workshop, the students were not only guided by the experienced mentors but also nurtured by a sense of community and mutual support. Shelley Khunkhun, an environmental photographer and UBC Masters student, joined the team and volunteered her time and expertise to the participants.
“Shelley Khunkhun, an environmental photographer and UBC Masters student, also joined us and volunteered her time and camera for the participants,” Gunjan says. “We’re deeply grateful to both Melissa and Shelley for joining us and spending their Sunday with our young photographers.”
The inclusive and welcoming atmosphere fostered by the organizers and mentors allowed the students to feel empowered to experiment, take risks, and share their unique perspectives. By the end of the workshop, the young photographers had not only honed their technical skills but also discovered the power of visual storytelling as a tool for conservation and advocacy.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservation Storytellers
The Girls Who Click Nature Photography and Conservation Workshop at Stanley Park High School was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the participants and the organizers alike. Gunjan Menon, the driving force behind the event, expressed her pride in witnessing the girls’ growth and enthusiasm throughout the day.
“The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of excitement and nervous energy as twelve girls, ranging in age from 10 to 17, gathered for a Girls Who Click (GWC) photography workshop in Alaska,” Gunjan shares. “Once those cameras got in their hands, they came alive!”
The workshop not only provided the students with practical skills and knowledge but also ignited a passion for using photography as a means of conservation and advocacy. By empowering these young visionaries to capture the beauty and wonder of the natural world, the organizers have laid the foundation for a future generation of conservation storytellers.
As the students return to their classrooms and communities, they carry with them the experiences and insights gained from the Girls Who Click workshop. Their photographs, infused with a newfound sense of purpose and creativity, have the power to inspire others, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change.
“The most important aspect of wildlife photography — patience — was also practiced (and tested),” Gunjan reflects. “And I can’t wait to see where their newfound skills will take them.”
The Stanley Park High School community can take immense pride in the success of this transformative workshop, knowing that they have played a role in nurturing the next generation of visual storytellers and environmental advocates. By continuing to support and amplify such initiatives, the school can ensure that the power of photography remains a driving force in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.
To learn more about the Girls Who Click organization and their upcoming workshops, please visit https://girlswhoclick.org/. Together, we can empower young minds to capture the stories that matter most and inspire positive change in our communities.
