Youth Conservation Photography Camp Offers Rare Opportunity to Learn From Top Utah Wildlife Photographers on Antelope Island

Youth Conservation Photography Camp Offers Rare Opportunity to Learn From Top Utah Wildlife Photographers on Antelope Island

This June, young aspiring photographers will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn from some of Utah’s most celebrated wildlife photographers—right in the heart of one of the state’s most iconic landscapes.

Photo by one of the photography camp mentors - Jason Loftus

The Utah Wildlife Federation is proud to announce “Lessons Through the Lens: Kids for Conservation”, a hands-on summer photography camp for youth ages 12–18. Over four Saturdays on Antelope Island, students will develop their photography and editing skills in the field while also learning about wildlife ethics, conservation, and citizen science.

“This camp gives kids a powerful new way to connect with nature,” said Shauna Hart, Board Chair of the Utah Wildlife Federation and one of the camp’s photography mentors. “Wildlife photography is more than just taking a picture—it's about seeing the world differently, and understanding our place in it. That’s why we do this. It’s a win-win for kids and wildlife.”

The camp will feature instruction from four of Utah’s most respected wildlife photographers:

• Shauna Hart – Conservationist and youth mentor passionate about making nature photography accessible to all.

• Jason Loftus – Globally traveled photographer known for capturing rare and exotic wildlife around the world.

• Lydia Ripplinger – Raptor education specialist and wildlife photographer from Payson who brings science and storytelling together.

• Jimmy Breitenstein – Backcountry wildlife expert and photographer specializing in capturing remote species in rugged terrain.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Antelope Island, where bison roam and shorebirds gather along the Great Salt Lake, campers will be immersed in real-world shooting conditions that inspire creativity and connection with nature.

Sponsored by Pictureline, this unique experience includes guided instruction, in-field practice, editing workshops, and discussions on how youth can contribute to conservation through photography. Students will walk away with not just technical skills, but a deeper understanding of the natural world and their role in protecting it.

Only 20 spots are available, and registration closes May 23. Camp sessions run Saturday mornings throughout June.

TO REGISTER: Visit www.utahwildlifefederation.org