Garden Clubs in the United States have been around for close to a century. And from the beginning, clubs and their members were conservationists. I’m of the opinion that many people are unaware of this long commitment associated with Garden Clubs. There’s credit deserved here.
Whether it was advocating against billboards (1919), testifying before Congress on behalf of parks (1921), or whether it was campaigning against logging (1930’s), individuals in Garden Clubs have been concerned with conservation long before the current conservation trend. Glad it’s finally becoming more mainstream!
Photography has always played an important role in showing populations examples of scenic blight, scenic beauty, wildlife wonders and wildlife atrocities. It has been a valuable tool for promoting conservation regardless of who is furthering that agenda. Now it isn’t news to you that pictures can express poignant messages louder than words, and show-and-tell us of places we’ll never be able to see.
What is news, however, is an emerging, concerted and organized genre promoted as conservation photography. The International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP) is an organization that works to further environmental and cultural conservation communications through compelling, vital imagery. The league and its member photographers work in collaboration with leading scientists, policy makers, government leaders and conservation groups to produce high quality messages. Member photographers have a proven commitment to conservation action, show demonstrated high ethical standards, and of course offer superior photographic skills.
I recommend watching the video below Witness: Defining Conservation Photography. I know I’m always inspired by beautiful photographic imagery of that we want to conserve here on Earth. Over 40 (iLCP) photographers show examples of how conservation and photography have the power to illustrate the issue.
Visit the iLCP http://www.ilcp.com/ where you can meet some of the daring adventurer/photographers we all admire.
Nancy R. Peck
Nancy R. Peck has 30+ years experience as a volunteer primarily in the fields of civic beautification, preservation, community outreach and enrichment.
Garden Club Salon 