Wildlife photographer brings her talent to TAMUK

Shattil looks to inspire students 

Capturing the minds of many students, Wildlife Conservation Photographer Wendy Shattil will present a lecture at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 4, at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Center located on 1730 West Corral Ave. A student exhibit reception will follow at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 5 at the John E. Connor Museum.

Shattil, a member of the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) as well as member of the International League of Conservation Photographers, has produced 15 books with her late husband Bob Rozinski.

Shattil explains how she began working in photography.

“I discovered purposeful photography in college and immediately realized I wanted to explore it further. I found opportunities to learn basic and advanced camera techniques that gave me plenty of tools to tell a story with photos,” Shattil said.

Shattil has continued to produce fascinating photographs for many years. She says it is incredibly important to create an image with a purpose. 

“Photography can have a purpose and the power to change attitudes. The work of a single individual can make a difference,” Shattil said.

Before Shattil’s lectureship concludes she will be opening the floor to anyone who may have any questions. 

During this time, she hopes to meet young photographers who aspire to speak for conservation with their cameras. 

“It takes time to develop skills, but there are opportunities to be successful with visual storytelling even in the early stages of learning,” Shattil said. 

Wildlife photography students hope to gain some knowledge from Shattil. This lectureship is not only a learning opportunity for students but a first for many. 

Range and Wildlife major Rigoberto Castellanos, who is also obtaining a minor in Wildlife Photography, said he is extremely excited for the upcoming exhibit. 

When Castellanos’ Wildlife Photography professor Brian Loflin informed him about the exhibit, he jumped at the opportunity. 

He travelled everywhere looking for photo opportunities he could display for the exhibit. 

“I’m very excited, this is my first exhibit. When she [Shattil] comes it will be an opportunity to get more connections in the photography world, I’m excited,” Castellanos said.

The exhibit will be on display beginning April 2 and will be open to the public. 

Fellow International League of Conservation Photographer and Texas A&M University Kingsville (TAMUK) Wildlife Photography professor Loflin speaks highly of Shattil.

“Having Wendy or any other top professional speak to students gives the students a perspective of the industry and all the opportunities that are found outside of the classroom and outside of the university. She will bring real life examples to what it means to be a top and very successful wildlife conservation photographer,” Loflin said.

In a male dominated society Shattil has been able to overcome gender norms by proving she is one of the top photographers in the industry.

“Impeccable photography, it’s a joy to be able to see her work. Wendy was the first woman ever to receive the Grand Prize in Great Britain’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year, she has exceeded beyond all expectations,” Loflin said. 

Loflin expresses just how important the exhibit is for his wildlife photography students and explains this is no ordinary assignment for the students. 

“Students will have an opportunity to show their work off and are able to receive feedback as well,” Loflin said.

To hear Shattil’s lecturship and enjoy the photographs TAMUK students have worked on, stop by the  John E. Conner Museum. Student’s work will be on display from April 2 through May 11.