First and foremost, I was incredibly lucky to spend three months this summer in a beautiful area of Guatemala surrounded by trees, lakes, volcanoes, and beaches. This was part of the Gotoco Eco- Education Programme which provides a well-rounded base of knowledge of Permaculture and Bioconstruction that hopes to encourage people of all ages to take part in promoting more local and sustainable agriculture.

While I learnt a lot about permaculture and bio-construction on the course, much of which I hope to incorporate into my daily life, photography became another significant part of the time I spent there. The diversity of wildlife was fascinating to see and easily captured my attention throughout the trip. The name Guatemala originates from a Mayan Language and means “Land of Many Trees” so it is only right there is an abundance of nature. Guatemala holds ecosystems and habitats that range from dense old-growth forests, sandy beaches, urban cities, pine forests, volcanic mountains, lakeside reedbeds and agricultural land. All holding huge amounts of life and diversity. It was easy to watch and identify the fascinating interactions taking place in these densely packed ecosystems. However, catching it on camera is a very different problem.

I managed to buy my first camera only one month before heading out to Guatemala. At the time I didn’t know that I would end up here, and if I had, perhaps I would have spent a little more time practising how to use it. Arriving at IMAP during the first week provided a great opportunity to hone some of my skills. With plenty of birds across many different landscapes, it ended up being the perfect location to practise my photography. I like to think I have slowly improved during my time here. There is plenty more to learn but I have little doubt this is something I will continue doing with a passion for the rest of my life.

So, thank you, Lottie, Ping, and Charlie for this wonderful opportunity.

Best wishes,
Jason