About the Photographer

Since I was a young boy, I have had a great appreciation for being outdoors and observing wildlife. As I grew older, I found myself fascinated with observing birds and their behavior. I enjoy watching how they interact with their surroundings and the other birds around them.

While in college I took a few photography classes and have been involved with photography on and off for over 20 years. A few years ago, I purchased my first digital SLR camera and began photographing birds while observing them. What a perfect combination, birding and photography. I have been hooked ever since. Most weekends you will find me either walking a trail searching for new species or set up in my blind waiting for that perfect shot. I only photograph free and wild birds in their natural surroundings.

I strive to capture images of birds that show great detail and the wonderful colors and variations in their plumage. It really excites me when someone views one of my images, seeing up close details they would not normally have the opporunity to see, enabling them to better appreciate these magnificent creatures.

—Matt Shellenberg, Belleville, Illinois

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