Derek Nielsen Photography

About Derek Nielsen

Image of photographer Derek Nielsen on top of a skyscraper in Chicago during sunrise doing photography

(Photo taken by Joseph Pelegreen)

After 20 years behind the lens, my journey to capture, share—and ultimately, help preserve—the fragile beauty of our planet has taken me to more than two dozen countries and every continent.

My photographs don’t just inspire, they connect—linking audiences and resources all over the world to wildlife, landscapes, and people in desperate need of assistance, from Rwanda’s endangered silverback gorillas to the overfished waters of Antarctica.

First moved to contribute to global conservation efforts while photographing the ominous splendor of Iceland’s Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, a haunting manifestation of climate change, I provide a portion of the proceeds from each sale using sustainably framed and matted works to on-the-ground, local conservation efforts, including The Conservation Alliance and Borneo’s The Borneo Project.

A native of Chicago, I carry a friendly midwest smile eager for a conversation with strangers. If you see me in the field or out at events don’t hesitate to ask any questions or just start a conversation about wildlife, conservation, and of course photography.

photo of Hadzabe tribe members playing with photographer Derek Nielsen's camera in Africa

To me, photography is all about exploration. Exploration of our natural world, other cultures, and ourselves. My time spent traveling the world has taught me countless valuable lessons. It has made me aware of the challenges we face ahead and how we all play a role in the survival of this planet. Photographers have a much larger role these days in conservation. We must bring deeper stories to the world than just pretty pictures. We need to trigger emotions to encourage others to make a change or get involved.

black and white photo of photographer Derek Nielsen

I first started out on my journey as a bright-eyed twenty-something with a lust for travel and with the hope a few nice images might be taken along the way. Then, I began fine-tuning my craft. Now, after seeing with my own eyes how incredibly beautiful this planet is across all 7 continents, I am devoting my life to helping save it. After visiting a few locations and realizing just how severe the environmental problems were from deforestation and climate change I couldn’t turn my back on the people and wildlife who depend on nature for their existence.

image of photographer Derek Nielsen in Antarctica watching a penguin

Do I see myself as a conservationist? I am not sure I am worthy enough of that title yet. I do though want to live my life as an example of someone passionately in love with this planet. Someone willing to make the small sacrifices geared toward a sustainable future. We face an uncertain future that often seems overwhelming, but with enough small steps, we can make a difference. Many of my daily choices take into consideration the impact they will have on the environment. This is something we should all do in our daily lives. It is not the big impact an individual can make, but the accumulation of many small acts that will make the biggest difference. It starts with one thing.

I want my work to decorate the walls of all those who love nature. Those who are excited by travel and the unknown.

“If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. as far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. Walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food. it’s a plus for everybody” – Anthony Bourdain.

Feel free to explore my collection. If nothing speaks out to you yet, check back in. I promise I’ll never stop creating. I’ll never stop caring. I’ll never stop exploring.


Get the latest updates on my adventures by following his Instagram: @dereknielsenphotography.com

Photograph of Derek Nielsen on a mountain top photographing a lake


Derek with a penguin

Hello! I'm Derek.

DEREK NIELSEN PHOTOGRAPHY RAISES AWARENESS ABOUT THE GLOBAL NEED FOR CONSERVATION THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY AND DONATES UP TO 15% OF ALL SALES BACK TO ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS AROUND THE WORLD.