Tamara Blazquez Haik

When Tamara was five, her father gave her a polaroid camera and she obsessively photographed all the things she loved, including Nature. Now, as a journalist and wildlife photographer, Tamara combines art and science to create captivating profiles of species in her native Mexico, and champions individuals and communities working to protect them. We selected Tamara to be a champion as her photos, and the stories they tell, bring people closer to Nature, illuminating the unseen, and presenting familiar species in a new light. In an area where levels of illiteracy are high, her photos, workshops and talks reach audiences traditionally less exposed to environmental outreach and education. 

Watch our conversation with Tamara Blazquez Haik above

How does time in Nature, and feeling connected to Nature, help you personally?

“Being in Nature is a big part of who I am and my wellbeing in general. Because I live in one of the largest, busiest, most polluted cities in the world, being in Nature gives me a breather from everything, including my responsibilities. Even though being in Nature as a photographer is my job, it feels more like just existing in harmony, and being happy and fulfilled.

Actually, my mental health gets really messed up if I stay in the city for long periods of time. Being in Nature renews me completely.”

What advice do you have for people looking for a better connection with Nature?

“Look for a community garden or any place in your neighborhood where there are a few trees, some grass and flowers, and start by going there. It could be 15 minutes a day. Little by little, you’ll start to notice things, to feel a connection. Eventually, you will want to learn more about your area, about the plants, the animals, the history. Even though I am a photographer, I would advise people to resist taking photos (at least at the start). The masters of photography know when to pick up the camera and take a picture and when to just enjoy the moment and take-it-in with their own eyes!”

What changes would you like to see to help more people access Nature and build positive, nurturing relationships with it? 

“I think those in power should change the way they look at urban centers. Especially in Latin America, I would love to see politicians stop copying the approach of US decision makers in the 70s, covering everything with concrete, and instead embrace greener ways of seeing cities – recovering rivers, parks and forests, and focusing on places to enjoy Nature. There are a few places I’ve seen doing this well, but in my city at least, most of this is led by citizens, not decision makers. People are the ones setting the example, and I think we have a lot to learn from these communities.

Find out more about Tamara Blazquez Haik and her work:

Tamara’s Website

Tamara’s Instagram

Tamara’s Facebook

Tamara’s Tiktok