The sun was hung low in the sky that was streaked with pinks, yellows, and the most vibrant oranges. Grass and trees sprung from the hard and thirsty ground. Water sat still, reflecting the brilliant sky, as the clan of hungry hyenas silently drank. A sunset safari vehicle, filled with Meline and her giant camera, rolled over the crackling ground. The heavy, rubber tire weighed down on the land. The vehicle came to a slow halt. Then, effortlessly, Meline turned on her camera, took off the lens protector, and positioned her camera for the perfect shot.
Ojai Valley school senior and young photographer, Meline Ellwanger has been in love with photography since she was little. To Meline, photography is not an elective or a hobby, it is a lifestyle. Extremely dedicated to the craft, Meline takes extreme pride in her work and takes each picture with care.
“Spending time to get that one perfect shot is the most amazing feeling there is,” said Meline.
Meline has not only had a huge impact on the OVS community as a dedicated photography student, but she has expanded and brought photography into her personal life. In December 2019 and then in August 2020 Meline took trips to Africa so that she could photograph the beautiful land and stunning animals. After Meline’s senior graduation she is planning on taking a gap year to spend two months in Africa to work on her photography and work with vets as well as rangers.
“Africa has a special place in my heart,” proclaimed Meline. “The variety of wildlife you get to see is absolutely overwhelming”
Beyonde taking pictures for her own enjoyment Meline hopes that her pictures will make an impact. Her passion and love for photography centers largely around her love of animals. Meline is taking pictures to educate people about wildlife.
“So many of them are on the verge of going extinct and my goal is to spread the word of how important wildlife conservation is,” said Meline.
Beyond raising awareness through her photography, she expresses how it affects her personally. For Meline, photography is another way to cope with the harsh impacts of society. While people may think photography is very nerve-wracking it is really just a way for photographers to feel grounded and express themselves.
A camera is a tool that every photographer can use to share their own feelings, opinions, and to educate those around them. Photography is different for every individual, and for Meline, it is a crucial part of her identity, happiness, and life.
“Photography gives me a feeling nothing else can,” said Meline, “a feeling of relaxation and happiness”.
Her passion and talent are evident to everyone around her. It is clear Meline is destined for great things.
“Meline’s photography never fails to amaze me,” said Senior Carson Strassman.