Laura College

I love photographing the alligators at Brazos Bend State Park. I caught this photo while lying on my belly about five feet away from this guy. He cooperated by showing me the goods—in this case, two rows of sharp, shiny teeth—before I backed off.

This little guy was an expert at outrunning the waves.

I shot this photograph in Galveston, Texas, and was captivated by the seagull’s shadow. It’s like he’s trying to prove he’s as badass as he feels—and aren’t we all?

I shot this image at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas. The rainforest pyramid is my favorite of all the exhibits, and this guy seemed willing to pose for me as I composed the shot that I had in mind.

I spend lots of time on the beach in Galveston, Texas, picking up seashells. This is one of my favorites.

Who doesn’t love a fresh bouquet of flowers?

I took this in the under-construction aquarium at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, last year. This shark kept swimming by, his dangling tooth impossible not to notice. I’m always amazed by how vicious sharks look — and I’ll be honest, they terrify me — and this was the only shot from the aquarium that came out the way I hoped.

This bear’s expression caught my eye at the Houston Zoo. He looked lonely, pensive, and somehow wise all at the same time. I knew from the moment I took it that I would convert it to black and white because of the distracting background. I also wanted to draw attention to the bear’s expression specifically.

I support the Houston Zoo (and all zoos), and I understand their role in conservation and animal rights. However, sometimes I can’t help but feel sorry for certain animals who look like they would do anything to escape their confinement.