My name is Sydney. I am a conservation photographer and filmmaker. I currently reside in the southwest, but often am found sleeping in the back of my car, scuba diving or snorkeling, traveling abroad, hiking or backpacking and out in the elements.

I first learned about conservation photography in 2018 when helping as a student aid at a Sandhill Crane Summit Workshop in Kearney, Nebraska. As a senior in college, finishing up my journalism degree, It was that moment I knew I wanted to help tell stories for the natural world. I spent three years after college working in ground water conservation as a communications specialist with Nebraska Natural Resource Districts. Later, living in Northwestern New Mexico, I began documenting conservation stories and life in the Southwest. These experiences have shaped my work, particularly in exploring systemic challenges stemming from colonialism and their impacts on the environment, while also exploring stories under water and on land in unexpected places.

Thank you for joining me as I continue building this work. If you’re interested in collaborating to tell a conservation or brand story, please email me at sydneysmolla@gmail.com or fill out a contact form below.

Sydney’s work has been featured by Adorama and won a 2025 & 2026 Sony Alpha Female micro-grant, and has had her work displayed in galleries nationwide. Her latest work has been published on the Sony Alpha Universe Blog as well as chosen in final selection for the International Photography Awards 2026. See below to see those mentioned features.