I learned about photography from my dad. He took me on hikes with his vest pockets full of camera lenses. At the end of the day, I’d stand next to him in our basement darkroom as he and chemistry made images appear on paper. I found grace in documenting nature.

My macro journey began in 2021 with the pandemic social isolation and has developed into a mindful practice that defines my daily life. Observing tiny creatures in stillness gives me clarity of emotion - a sort of soul gazing - continually deepening my relationship with wildlife and reminding me we are never alone. Embracing details that otherwise go unnoticed helps me reflect and challenges me to always look closer at what’s directly in front of me in a more meaningful way. Literally and metaphorically.

After graduating from Kenyon College in 1988 with a B.S. in Psychology and Music,  I pursued the performing arts in NYC before returning to my hometown of Cumberland, Maryland, in 1993. Here, I received a B.F.A from Frostburg State University in Photography, Printmaking and K-12 Art Education and have taught Visual and Performing Arts in both public and private schools for 25 years while being active in the arts community. Today my full-time focus is Fine Art Wildlife Macro Photography and working on my backyard native garden project, now a certified wildlife habitat.

Participating in photography competitions challenges me to get out of my comfort zone and evaluate my work critically through the eyes of expert judges. Since 2022, I’ve received awards, Highly Commended Distinctions, and Expert Shortlists from The Wild Lens Magazine, Amateur Photographer Magazine, Close-Up Photographer of the Year, International Garden Photographer of the Year, Natural History Museum Wildlife Photographer of the Year, National Wildlife Federation Garden for Wildlife, MUSE Photography Awards, WILD Photo Awards, Pangolin Africa Photo Challenge, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and Praxis Gallery Photographic Arts Center for B&W.

Portraits courtesy of Steven Fiscus