No matter what part of Florida, there is bound to be an ocean, river or springs just a short drive away. Not only these waters, but the wildlife that come with the territory, are what make Florida such a unique habitat.
National Geographic Explorer and Underwater Conservation Photographer Jennifer Adler uses the lens of a camera to visually tell the stories of underwater wildlife in the Sunshine State.
Adler is no stranger to travel. From Mexico to French Polynesia, Iceland, Zanzibar and beyond, she has captured natural beauty around the world. So, what makes her a neighbor here in Greater Gainesville? She first picked up a camera at the area’s freshwater springs.
“I grew up in, on and around the water, so when I left the Ocean State and found myself far from the ocean in Central Florida, I was devastated — until I started researching and exploring the freshwater springs,” Adler said. “These springs are direct connections to the underlying aquifer, which supplies more than 92% of Florida’s drinking water.”
Adler’s photography brings light to natural ecosystems that many will never get to see with their own two eyes. She dives deep into the limestone caves, capturing photos to help “connect people in Florida to the water beneath their feet, as well as the science happening beneath the surface.”
Many Floridians are unaware of the underwater degradation happening underground. Through underwater photography, Adler communicates the science behind this breakdown in local springs.
Adler not only inspires the next generation of female scientists, but is inspired by them as well. She participated in the Women and Girls in Science Day at the Florida Museum of Natural History in February. She also inspired the community at the Women in Science event at the Cade Museum right here in Gainesville.
“The goal of my work is to make science compelling and understandable to a wider audience and elevate the voices of female scientists and conservationists. I hope that my imagery can help achieve measurable conservation outcomes and inspire the next generation of women to pursue creative careers in STEM.”
Adler has become an esteemed woman in the science field. She got her start in marine biology at Brown University and later earned a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary ecology from the University of Florida. She learned firsthand the importance of science communication while working with the local community through her research in the Turks and Caicos islands. Adler’s role as a biologist for the U.S. Geological Survey led her to Florida.
Most recently, Adler has been directing her first film, “Home Waters.” The film follows three high school-aged girls on a trek from the Rainbow River headspring to the Gulf of Mexico. It will be released in the coming months. Watch the trailer or check out some more of her photography on her website.
By Hannah Schoff