Derek Nielsen Photography

Derek Nielsen Photography I help people become better photographers through my masterclass, Focus and Flourish.
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My love for nature and wildlife photography has taken me to all seven continents, turning my own skills as a photographer and storyteller into an agent for change.

09/05/2026

This morning we had an incredible fog bank over the city of Chicago at sunrise.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina. 2012 seems like ages ago but it was the start of my deep love for travel and photography.
09/04/2026

Iguazu Falls, Argentina. 2012 seems like ages ago but it was the start of my deep love for travel and photography.

One of my favorite memories in recent years as a photographer was returning to the Hadzabe tribe of East Africa after tw...
09/03/2026

One of my favorite memories in recent years as a photographer was returning to the Hadzabe tribe of East Africa after two years. This time, I brought my family to meet them. It was like seeing old friends.

In my collection of photos on my phone were photographs of the tribe from two years ago. Children, women, teens, and men. All now a little older, different haircuts, children taller. The tribe went wild, laughing at the differences two years could make. I'm not sure anyone has taken portraits of them, then return only a few years later. I imagine most people photograph them then move on. They couldn't believe how big the kids are now compared to then.

I felt so much closer to them this time around. The ones that remembered me, were genuinely excited to show me around. We started out as strangers from across the globe with wildly different cultures, but are now friends with more in common than one would expect.

LAST DAY!!!Today is the last day to order your copy of The Wild Within to get your name in the back as a supporter!! I r...
09/01/2026

LAST DAY!!!

Today is the last day to order your copy of The Wild Within to get your name in the back as a supporter!! I really appreciate everyone's support so far. Thank you so so much.

After today, you will still be able to pre-order the book in time for the holidays, but the names will no longer be added to the back.

https://www.dereknielsen.com/the-wild-within/

My heart goes out to all those impacted by the recent rains causing flash floods across the Southwest National parks. If...
09/01/2026

My heart goes out to all those impacted by the recent rains causing flash floods across the Southwest National parks. If you're traveling in that region please check the weather all over the region not just your immediate area. Flash floods can travel fast and far.

Nice rainbow this afternoon in Chicago.
08/31/2026

Nice rainbow this afternoon in Chicago.

I am thrilled to announce my photos series "Whatever The Weather" won first prize in the 2026 International Photography ...
08/27/2026

I am thrilled to announce my photos series "Whatever The Weather" won first prize in the 2026 International Photography Awards contest for the category Editorial / Press Political.

It was a cold snowy day in Chicago when thousands of people came out to protest our governments mistreatment of immigrants and it's own citizens. As a thick blanket of heavy snow began to cover everyone the already powerful scene began to create a historical form.

The songs became louder, the voices became stronger, and the people remained undeterred. One message became clear, they were going to fight for our democracy no matter the weather.

Nature enthusiasts, protectors of the wild, and anyone curious about what wild animals can teach us: there is just one w...
08/26/2026

Nature enthusiasts, protectors of the wild, and anyone curious about what wild animals can teach us: there is just one week left to pre-order my first book, The Wild Within, and have your name, or the name of someone special to you, printed in the back of the book as a thank-you for your early support.

If you’re purchasing the book as a gift and would like someone else’s name included instead of your own, simply send me a direct message after ordering.
The book will ship the last week of November, just in time to make a meaningful holiday gift for someone in your family or community who cares deeply about nature.

After traveling to all seven continents and countless countries, I took time to reflect on some of the most profound experiences I’ve had in the presence of wild animals. I found myself asking: What have these encounters taught me?
Endurance. Leadership. Adaptability. Presence. Empathy. Grace. The true meaning of family. And so much more.

The Wild Within brings together photography, personal storytelling, and conservation to explore these lessons and, ultimately, to help us reconnect with the natural world at a time when that connection feels more important than ever.

We are not separate from nature. We are a part of it. And I believe the stronger that connection becomes, the greater our desire, and our ability, to protect the wild places and animals we share this planet with for generations to come.
I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported this project and helped bring The Wild Within to life. I truly cannot wait to share it with you.

https://www.dereknielsen.com/the-wild-within/

Happy Dozy! We share a truly unique and special bond. You have given us the best 9 years. Laughter, adventures, snuggl...
08/26/2026

Happy Dozy! We share a truly unique and special bond. You have given us the best 9 years. Laughter, adventures, snuggles, zooming, and love. I don't know what we did to deserve you but you touch every soul you meet. You're one of the great ones.

08/26/2026

Rest in peace . You were a really good soul

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Chicago, IL
60605

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+13125668564

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