Wildlife conservation advocate and National Geographic photographer Ami Vitale has traveled to more than 100 countries, bearing witness not only to violence and conflict but also to the surreal beauty of nature and the enduring power of the human spirit. With over 1.2 million followers on Instagram, she uses her platform to inspire people to protect nature and see their interconnectedness to each other and the world around them.
Ami joined Photographers Without Borders (PWB) Founder Danielle Da Silva as part of PWB’s ongoing “Storytelling for Change” webinar series. Below are edited excerpts from the discussion, which share Ami's thoughts on staying sane during COVID-19, protecting nature, finding your purpose and practicing gratitude.
Danielle Da Silva: How are you keeping healthy and sane? How has your day-to-day been affected by COVID-19 and everything that's happening?
Ami Vitale: It's the first time in decades that I've spent so much time at home. The last two years, I’ve spent a maximum of three weeks at home. I was always on the road. The funny part is, every single night I've been having dreams that involve planes, missing taxis or missing a connection. But last night, I had my first dream about a Zoom video call.
I'm really trying to use this moment to reimagine my own impact and future in a way that doesn't involve as much travel. Personally, the big takeaway is that nature is sending us a really strong message. And instead of wrapping our minds around the anxiety of the unknown, this is such a great opportunity for all of us to reinvent ourselves, reimagine, be optimistic about how we can create the life we truly want to be living. It's a great moment to breathe.
Image by Ami Vitale
Da Silva: What do you feel your purpose is?
Ami Vitale: I want to lift people up wherever I can. Negative thoughts are toxic and contagious—they can drag us all down. But we can all lift each other up through attitude and how we view things. I've been fortunate to see many different perspectives and to look at this world from many different angles.
Sometimes, the story or purpose is literally right behind you. But your camera is pressed up against your face, giving you tunnel vision. We all get obsessed with that one thing in front of us, and we forget to turn around, take the camera down, view it from another angle, and see how different the world looks.
Image by Ami Vitale
Da Silva: Of all of the teachings you've ever received, from all of your travel to more than 100 countries, what is the most profound teaching you can share?
Ami Vitale: It's a tough time, and it’s okay to honor that. I've had days where I'm filled with despair, and I just don't feel I can get out of bed. The way I've gotten out of that was to sit and think about all the people I’m grateful for and write thank you letters to them. And a few hours in, I began to realize everything wasn’t so bad.
A good night's sleep also helps. I’ve had trouble sleeping during the pandemic, but sleep helps—and so does getting out into nature. I saw Iceland did a tree hugging campaign, and I thought, “Yes, do it! Literally do that.” If you're feeling lonely, go hug a tree. Also, know that everything is temporary in life. That awful feeling will pass and helping other people or creatures makes everything feel better. So go out and explore and document your world—photography is a great escape for anyone.
You can watch Ami Vitale's entire webinar by becoming a PWB Member. As a member, you’ll have full access to all online “Storytelling for Change” webinars that feature notable photographer storytellers from around the world.