My name is Tess Skiles, and I'm a conservation photographer.

As many of my friends, followers, and loved ones are aware, I've been shooting nature photography for two decades, from the moment my dad, Wes Skiles, put a Nikon in my hands (at the ripe old age of 8).

You won't regret watching.

Once photography was in my life, I never looked back. My first big purchase wasn't a car, it was an entry-level Nikon D3300 with slightly better specs than the camera my father left me after his passing in 2010. My Nikon has been my main shooter ever since. It's faithfully accompanied me on numerous expeditions, capturing tens of thousands of images that I've used to advocate for the protection of Florida's fragile freshwater springs.

Over the years, I've pushed my camera to the absolute max. It's made me a more creative and resourceful photographer, and for that I'm grateful. Unfortunately, I loved my camera to death though. Last week fate dealt its final blow to my trusty sidekick, leaving me without a camera for the first time in 22 years - a painful blow to my creative soul and wallet too.

Considering the writing/filming of my first-ever National Geographic grant proposal, it is evident this opportunity demands a swift upgrade. While I've saved the necessary funds for the purchase of my camera and single lens...an underwater housing, dome, housing parts, lenses, and various camera accessories remain a financial challenge ahead.

This is why I'm turning to my friends, family, and followers for support. The work I devote myself to, capturing and safeguarding Florida's natural wonders, is not just a mere occupation—it is the very purpose that gives my life meaning. However, in order to fully seize the opportunities that pave the way towards financial stability within my passion, I have to find a way to bridge the financial gaps that stand in my path. Working non-profit all of these years has not allowed for the saving necessary for the complete jump to a new camera system. This new camera system will open countless doors for me professionally.

Knowing that many of you have been steadfast supporters of my career and wholeheartedly believe in the importance of my endeavors, I humbly request your kind consideration in donating to my camera gear fund. It's my hope to continue to grow into the fins left to me by my late father. You will be helping me return to the water to pursue my passion for protecting untamed Florida and playing a vital role in telling the story of Florida's diminishing natural resources.

A gear price list and link to my portfolio can be found below.

With love and endless gratitude - Tess

Gear Price List:

Housing: $3,200.00-$4,300.00

8-inch Glass Dome Port: $1,400

Strobes/Video Lights: You don't even want to know

Underwater Wide Angle Zoom Lens: $2,000

Camera and Housing Accessories: $500-$1,000

My Portfolio