Emilia on assignment in Norway
As part of our 2023 Scholarship, Emilia traveled to Norway aboard a Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express voyage, with mentoring from award-winning creatives Dan and Zora Avila.
Emilia's assignment was to capture the essence of Norway through a 60-second video, photography, and a photo essay. Check out her work below.
Watch Emilia's scholarship experience in Norway
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View Emilia's trip photography
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda 
Photo credit: Emilia Miranda
Read Emilia's photo essay
The scholarship that brought us together
Embarking on the Hurtigruten Express along the amazing Norwegian coast and fjords was more than just a journey; it unfolded into an extraordinary odyssey, in which each destination etched indelible memories into the film of our adventure.
This experience was made even more remarkable by our mentors, Dan and Zora, whose guidance transformed the trip into a voyage of learning, laughter, and unwavering support. My companions in this exploration, Les and Amanda, became more than fellow winners; they became friends.
Everyone on the team had a unique vision as humans and photographers, and the way we all complemented each other and learned so much on the road is something I’ll cherish forever. It was such a healthy and loving environment to be around.
As we sailed through the Norwegian waters, a unique bond blossomed among us, akin to a tight-knit family. This camaraderie was not only built on shared experiences but on our collective passion for photography and film.
Every day unfolded as a new chapter, bringing forth activities that transcended the ordinary. From the exhilaration of fishing in the crisp Nordic waters to the exhilarating rush of dog sledding through the snowy expanses, each activity added layers to our collective narrative as we explored new land. The towns we visited, each with its own unique character, and the warm hospitality and smiles of the locals painted a vivid picture of Norway's soul.
Contrary to my preconceived notions, the people of Norway shattered stereotypes with their warmth and open-heartedness. Far from being reserved, the locals welcomed us with broad smiles and a generosity of spirit that left an indelible mark on our hearts. It was a revelation.
Photographing as a group became a revelation in itself. The exchange of ideas, the collective problem-solving, and the joy of witnessing different perspectives through various lenses enriched our artistic journey. We weren't just photographers capturing images; we were storytellers, weaving narratives through our shared experiences as both artists and human beings.
Every town we explored became a chapter in a tale of contrasts. From the historic allure of Bergen to the wild beauty of Honningsvag, the Norwegian coast unfurled as a sequence of immersive landscapes, beckoning us to capture its essence. The diversity of experiences and the ever-shifting scenery ensured each town emerged as a distinctive episode in our visual journey.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Norwegian fjords, I reflected on this experience. The Norwegian coast, with its majestic beauty, became a canvas upon which our stories unfolded. The scholarship that brought us together was more than an opportunity; it was a surreal experience that touched me to the core.
In the end, it wasn't just about the photographs we captured or the films we made; it was about the connections we forged, the laughter that echoed over the Norwegian seas, and the shared moments that bound us as a group. There's nothing more precious than cultivating your artistic spirit alongside those who inspire and uplift you, enriching not only your craft but also your essence.
