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Welcome to the Get to Know Best Practices Resource Page



Here you will find an engaging collection of videos, lesson plans, activities and tips from artists, photographers, filmmakers, environmentalists, educators, and students from across North America.

The intersection of science, creative arts, and 21st century media technologies creates powerful conduits for connecting young people with nature. We hope these resources will help you use art to connect your students with nature and develop more meaningful connections to local flora and fauna. These resources are designed to complement science and art curricula at all grade levels.


Approved by:

California Learning Resource Network

Tips from Andrew Stiles, Get to Know Ambassador

  1. Know the route for maximum fun, and be sure to explore the area and see all the best sights.
  2. Know that it is safe and always stay alert. Think through all scenarios, like wildlife, weather, traffic, etc.
  3. Bring along your binoculars, field guides, GPS, and other outdoor gear.

I find that not only my best images, but also my most enjoyable experiences in nature, occur when I have an open mind and follow my intuition. When I feel drawn to a certain scene, I try to simplify the scene and not include anything that is distracting. I also try to always look for beautiful light.

- Garth Lenz, Nature Photographer, ILCP Fellow

Photography Tips from Joel Sartore,
Get to Know Contest Endorser

  1. Lighting is key. Shoot early in the morning or late in the day for the best light – many animals are at their most active and interesting then.
  2. Look at your subject from every angle. Walk all the way around it, view it from a low angle and from up high to find the best view. Show your viewers something unexpected.
  3. Pay attention to the background. Things like tree branches "growing" out of a subject's head are distracting to viewers, so move around, use different angles, and do whatever you can to make a subject "pop."
  4. Interesting subjects can be found just about anywhere, even in your own back yard. The variety of wildlife in your hometown may surprise you.

Photography Tips from Sebastian Kennerknecht:

  1. The most important thing about nature photography is to research, know, and understand your subjects; this will provide the greatest opportunities to making meaningful images.
  2. Enjoy and celebrate the subjects you are photographing! This time spent in nature will fuel your creative process.
  3. Know your photography equipment inside and out. You don't want to be fumbling with manuals and settings when the perfect moment is happening right in front of you!

Most of all, enjoy yourself, keep your mind and your heart open, take lots of pictures, photograph what you love and you will love what you photograph!

- Garth Lenz, Nature Photographer, ILCP Fellow