Hi, my name is Andy and I am 28 years old. I’m originally from Elgin, Illinois, but recently moved to Montello, Wisconsin in the spring of 2021.  My whole life I have always been interested in and cared for animals. My main photography focus is birds, however I always enjoy photographing all types of wildlife when I can! 

How I got started in wildlife photography:

Growing up I was always very active in sports. My main hobbies were baseball, basketball, tennis, hockey, and golf. I also really enjoy music and have been playing the guitar for over 12 years. However, in late 2016 I suffered a traumatic brain injury. I had previously been working and recently graduated from Northern Illinois University.  I had received my bachelors degree and was planning on entering into a graduate program for Physical therapy.  All of that and my old hobbies were put on hold after the injury and the effects it has left on my health.

I am still currently recovering, but wildlife photography has been a blessing to find as a new hobby/therapy. In the spring of 2018 I borrowed my parents old Nikon d50 camera and decided to try photographing some birds I would see out in the yard. On my 2nd day, a Blue Jay came trotting into our yard. At the time I had no idea what it was, but it was beautiful!  Ever since then I was hooked. The first year I mainly photographed birds I found in our backyard or at one local park that was just down the road.

Since then I have upgraded my camera gear a bit and now travel to lots of our local parks and forest preserves in search of birds and wildlife! I am unable to drive very far due to my health, so all of my photos are local and close to home. I do hope to fully regain my health one day. When that day comes I also hope to do lots of traveling in search of new birds and animals. I have a large bucket list of wildlife I would love  to see and photograph in the future. Until then I hope you all enjoy my photos and thank you so much for checking out my website!