During a service break in Tahiti, I experienced the incredibly diverse and beautiful natural environment of Tahiti. I not only learned how the natural environment supports a vast ecosystem, but I also learned about the deep connection it has with the native people of Tahiti. 

Exploring and learning more about what makes up Tahiti, I am reminded how important it is to recognize and respect these people and their land. As human society progresses, both the natural environment and history of the people are threatened - whether it be through irresponsible tourism / money making schemes or lasting effects of colonialism in schools and society… As a global community, we must take note of these serious issues. 

I created this video to show what I have learned and experienced, and to hopefully educate and inspire others to volunteer their efforts to protecting the island of Tahiti. 

In this video I wanted to capture both the diversity of the natural environment on the island, as well as the natural cycles of time and weather and how it affects the way the environment is perceived. The music and sound is used to draw the listener closer to the natural environments being represented, as well as it acts as a symbolic union between nature and the native Tahitian culture. 

I used photoshop to retouch my photographs. I used Premiere to put the video together.