Local PICC alumni from 2022 and 2023 sessions in Azuero, and visiting youth from North and South America, participated in 2 wonderful morning hikes with the DSLR cameras and long lenses through Canopy Venao‘s dense and biodiverse forest (with special access permission). We spent the mornings photographing the plants and animals in the forest and then the afternoons reviewing their images in the comfort of Wao Jungle Venao‘s patio. Both afternoons we had the Endangered Azuero howler monkeys (Alouatta coibensis trabeata) visit right next to our location, giving the students an opportunity to photograph this gorgeous animal and watch juveniles playing, feeding behaviors, and a mom with a tiny newborn. See if you can find the newborn in their photographs!
In addition to the technical training, PICC’s focus is on being a respectful and considerate visitor to natural areas. We discuss Conservation PEARLS – the how to of Photography, using good Ethics, understanding Animal behavior and needs, showing Respect for the ecosystem and biodiversity, understanding and using Light, and Slowing down to truly See details.
Enjoy a selection of their photographs on the student images page here. We are so impressed with the way each of these students, aged 6 to 17, found unique perspectives and fascinating details to make truly original and meaningful images. They have continued access to a Canon DSLR camera with a zoom lens to continue taking photos and getting to know these amazing conservation areas. We look forward to seeing their contributions to outreach education in their communities!
A special thank you to the 2025 PICC Team — Julie, Sasha, Andrew, Ed, Stuart, Tammy and Carl– who made these programs possible and brought a high level of fun and knowledge to their work with the youth!
