Winter on the Edge: Photographing Chicago When the City Freezes
Winter in Chicago isn’t subtle. It doesn’t arrive gently or ask permission. It shows up loud and unapologetic wind howling off Lake Michigan, ice stacking into impossible shapes, the skyline standing rigid against a cold so sharp it feels personal. Most people retreat indoors this time of year. Cameras stay
Top 25 Locations For Chicago Photography [Local Guide]
Chicago is an incredible city for photography. The city draws millions of people with its gorgeous lakefront, world-class architecture, delicious food, family-friendly riverwalk, and large parks. What makes this city so special for photographers is its character. Chicago photography begins around these locations, but they are just a start. When To
The Best Guide To Nature Photography Tips 2026
LEARN THE BASICS OF NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY FIRST Frozen Rays - Limited Edition Fine Art Print of 6 - Derek Nielsen Photography We all love photography. If you’re here, you must love nature too. There are many different types of photography (fashion, event, wedding, product, etc.), but the one that has drawn many
How to Stay Sane When the World Feels Like It’s Falling Apart
There are days when I come home from photographing wildlife or wild places and feel more unsettled than inspired. I’ll download the images, sit quietly with them, and instead of feeling gratitude, I feel grief. The animals look smaller than I remember. The landscape feels more fragile. The news running
A Rare Winter Gift: Photographing the Snowy Owls Visiting Chicago’s Montrose Beach
Every winter, Chicago gets its share of surprises: sudden lake-effect squalls, icy sunrises over Lake Michigan, and every now and then, something far more magical: the arrival of snowy owls. This year, a pair of snowy owls has been spotted frequenting Montrose Beach and the surrounding dunes, sparking excitement among
The Ultimate Guide For Antarctica Photography | From A Professional Photographer
Antarctica photography has always fascinated me. Going down to Antarctica on a photography trip or just to get away on vacation is no easy task. Factor in the cost, the time it takes to get there, and the availability of travel options, Antarctica can be quite a challenge for even
How to Collect Fine Art Photography: A Guide for New & Seasoned Collectors
This photography collectors' guide will help you understand the nuances of purchasing fine art photography for your home or business. Fine art photography has a unique ability to blend artistry, storytelling, and tangible investment value. Each print captures not only a moment in time but also the vision of the
Navigating the Fine-Art Photography Market: Key Trends, Insights & Buying Strategies for Discerning Collectors
In today’s evolving art-market landscape, buying fine-art photography and limited-edition prints is more than a decorative decision it is both an aesthetic investment and a personal statement. For the collector who seeks works that resonate emotionally, reflect values, and hold their place in a shifting cultural terrain, understanding the current
ICE in Chicago – A Locals Perspective
ICE in Chicago has dominated the headlines of major publications as of late. Let me fill you in on what it feels like to be a resident of this great city under military-like occupation. As a nature and wildlife conservation fine art photographer, I never imagined my days would be spent
The Pros and Cons of Buying Cheap Wall Art: Canvas, Print-on-Demand, Mass-Produced Décor vs. Fine Art
Buying cheap wall art always seems like a good idea at first. However, in a short amount of time, it becomes stale because you have no connection to it. Filling your walls with art can transform a house into a home. It creates atmosphere, sparks conversation, and makes a space