COA Senior Wins 2nd Place in National Photographic Art Competition 

When Darren, a Carolus Online Academy (COA) senior in high school, pressed the shutter button on a windy April afternoon, he had no idea the moment he captured would soon earn him 2nd place in K12’s National Art Competition – a recognition that has put his photography in the spotlight. 

The stunning image of a mother egret and her babies was taken at South Carolina’s iconic Magnolia Plantation and Gardens; a place Darren describes as “one of the best spots around to find wildlife in nesting season.” 

A Photographer at Heart 

Though his award-winning photo looks like the work of someone with years of experience, Darren only officially picked up photography this year. 

“I’ve been going on nature trails and walks since before I can remember, but the photography part is the new part,” he shared. “I really got into it in January.” 

What isn’t new is his love for wildlife and the outdoors – a passion sparked during his childhood in the Florida Everglades. 

“My mom and dad used to take me out into the Everglades all the time when I was growing up. They both loved it before even meeting each other, and they passed that down to me,” Darren said. “My dad also did photography, so that played a big role too.” 

He also draws inspiration from renowned Everglades photographer Clyde Butcher. 

“Clyde Butcher has always been a big inspiration. His images of Big Cypress and the Everglades are incredible.” 

The Winning Shot 

Darren’s winning photograph captures a tender wildlife moment – an egret tending to her chicks, feathers lifting in the breeze. 

But landing a shot like that isn’t all luck. 

“Sometimes it’s knowing what location the animals like to be in, and other times it’s just getting lucky that they’re there,” Darren explained. “With some animals, you have to look for signs, like beaver-chewed trees or holes in trees from woodpeckers.” 

At Magnolia Plantation, he knew he was in the right place at the right time. 

“I was there during their nesting season, so there were a lot of birds and nests around.” 

He also used rapid shutter mode to freeze the delicate movement of the feathers waving in the wind. 

“The feathers were blowing, so taking rapid shots helped me catch one perfectly still.” 

A Love for Wildlife – Even the Dangerous Kind 

While some photographers chase sunsets or landscapes, Darren is most drawn to creatures that many people avoid – alligators, for example. 

“Alligators are definitely my favorite animal to photograph,” he shared. 

Does that mean he gets close? Well … yes. 

“You have to know the animal. You can get closer to a snake that’s not venomous than one that is,” he said with a grin. 

In South Carolina, he and his family often drive 30–40 minutes to reach swamps marked with “Beware of Gators” signs. It’s all part of the adventure. 

And this isn’t his first big win. Darren also recently won a photography contest in Georgia, impressing judges with an image taken near the state line. 

Learning and Growing Through Virtual Education 

Darren has been enrolled in virtual education since 7th grade, continuing with Carolus Online Academy after his family moved from Florida to South Carolina. 

Virtual learning, he says, has made a meaningful difference in both his education and his well-being. 

“For me, it’s mainly two reasons. One, I have anxiety, so not having to be in a classroom is a big benefit. And also, the Flex program gives me more opportunities to go out and take pictures.” 

He feels he’s better able to learn and focus without the distractions of a brick-and-mortar environment. 

“When you’re at home, if the teacher drops a test, you’re not stuck in a room with everyone else. You’re in your own safe space. It’s easier to focus and less stressful.” 

Looking Toward the Future 

A graduating senior, Darren is exploring several options for what comes next. One thing is certain: photography will play a role. 

“I’m looking into places I can volunteer so I can make connections. Maybe someone there will know a photographer or someone who wants to hire one. That would help me learn in the field and meet people.” 

He’s open to turning photography into a career, especially if it allows him to work with wildlife. 

“Maybe photography through school, or something with wildlife. I want to see how volunteering goes and then decide.” 

A Bright Future … Behind the Lens 

With awards under his belt, a passion rooted in family tradition, and a talent that’s growing with every passing month, Darren is only just beginning his journey. 

Whether he’s trekking through a swamp in search of alligators or capturing a tender moment between a mother bird and her chicks, Darren has a rare gift for finding beauty in the wild and sharing it with the world. 

“I’m hoping to keep learning, keep exploring, and keep taking pictures wherever I can.” 

And we can’t wait to see those photos! 

Is Online Learning Right for Your Family? 

At Carolus Online Academy (COA), students experience a tuition-free online education designed for their individual learning needs. Serving K-12^th-grade students in South Carolina, COA offers a college and career-focused curriculum, passionate teachers, and a variety of social and extracurricular opportunities.  

Since its founding in 2023, COA has empowered students through flexible learning and personalized support. As a K12-powered school, COA benefits from 25 years of leadership in online education through K12, a Stride, Inc. portfolio brand. Learn more at coa.k12.com. 

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