Renee Capozzola

Objectives

Renee Capozzola is an international award-winning underwater photographer and Los Angeles AP Biology teacher whose work highlights the beauty and vulnerability of marine ecosystems. Following her historic achievement as the first woman and first American to win the prestigious Underwater Photographer of the Year competition, Renee sought to leverage the global recognition of her work to raise awareness of endangered shark populations, ocean conservation, and fragile marine environments. She also aimed to expand her visibility beyond the underwater photography community and reach broader national audiences.

Strategy

EKC PR developed a targeted publicity and media relations campaign designed to elevate Renee’s profile as both an accomplished photographer and a passionate advocate for marine conservation. The campaign focused on securing television interviews and media opportunities that connected her award-winning photography to larger conversations about ocean preservation, wildlife protection, environmental awareness, and science education.

To maximize exposure following her historic achievement, EKC coordinated a strategic sequence of national and local television appearances, positioning Renee as an engaging expert capable of translating conservation issues into compelling stories for mainstream audiences.

Results

EKC secured television visibility that helped bring Renee’s story and conservation message to audiences across the country.

Her media appearances included KTLA Morning News, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and NBC’s TODAY, creating a progression of exposure from regional television to nationally recognized broadcast platforms.

The campaign highlighted Renee’s groundbreaking accomplishment as the first woman and first American to win Underwater Photographer of the Year in 2021. Her award-winning image, Shark’s Skylight, was selected from more than 5,000 entries submitted from 68 countries, generating international recognition for both her artistic achievement and her conservation message.

Impact

Through strategic media exposure and television visibility, EKC PR helped expand awareness of Renee’s work beyond the underwater photography world and into mainstream public conversations about marine conservation. The campaign amplified her voice as an advocate for endangered sharks and ocean ecosystems while strengthening her recognition as a respected photographer, educator, and environmental ambassador. By connecting her award-winning imagery with broader conservation messaging, Renee was able to inspire greater appreciation for marine life and the importance of protecting vulnerable ocean habitats.

Related Services