Honors, Awards, and Press
Recognition for photography, conservation, and outdoor storytelling in Michigan's Upper Peninsula
Much of my work begins with paying attention — to the rhythms of wildlife, the changing seasons, the night sky, and the stories embedded in the landscapes of the Upper Peninsula. Sometimes that work takes the form of a photograph. Other times it takes the form of a guided walk, a community program, a conservation effort, or simply helping someone experience the region in a new way.
I'm honored when those efforts are recognized through awards, publications, exhibitions, speaking engagements, or media coverage. More than anything, those moments reflect a shared appreciation for the places and experiences that inspire the work.
The recognition highlighted below represents milestones along the journey rather than the purpose of it. The real reward remains the opportunity to explore, learn from, and share the remarkable natural heritage of the Upper Peninsula.
FYI50+ Magazine Article (8 June 2026)
On June 8, 2026, I was featured in Julie Suman’s article Why Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula Is One of the Best Dark Sky Destinations in the US, published in FYI50+ Magazine. The article explored the unique combination of geography, low levels of light pollution, and abundant public access that make the Keweenaw Peninsula a premier destination for stargazing, aurora viewing, and night sky photography. Drawing on my experience as a dark-sky photographer, educator, and guide, I shared insights into the region’s night sky resources, the growing interest in dark-sky tourism, and the importance of protecting naturally dark landscapes for both ecological and recreational benefits. The feature helped showcase the Keweenaw’s emergence as one of the Midwest’s leading destinations for experiencing the wonders of the night sky.
Travel By Vacation Rental Article (30 May 2026)
On May 30, 2026, I was mentioned in Julie Suman’s article Michigan’s Laurium Manor Inn—Where History Welcomes You Home, published by Travel By Vacation Rental. The article highlighted the rich history, hospitality, and visitor experiences associated with one of the Keweenaw Peninsula’s most iconic historic destinations while also showcasing the broader appeal of the region for travelers seeking authentic connections to place. My inclusion in the feature reflected the growing interest in the Keweenaw’s outdoor recreation, natural heritage, and place-based experiences, and recognized the role that local guides, photographers, and storytellers play in helping visitors discover the character of Michigan’s Copper Country.
HP Conservation and Nature Stories (14 May 2026)
On May 14, 2026, I was featured in the dark sky section of Heather Physioc’s article Small Town America: Winter in the Keweenaw Peninsula, published on her website, HP. Conservation and Nature Stories. The article highlighted the unique natural and cultural experiences that define winter in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, including its internationally recognized dark skies and opportunities for viewing the aurora borealis. Drawing on my experience as a night sky photographer, educator, and guide, I shared perspectives on what makes the region a special destination for stargazing and aurora viewing, as well as the importance of protecting dark skies as both a natural resource and a meaningful part of the visitor experience. The feature helped showcase the Keweenaw's growing reputation as a destination for nature-based tourism, outdoor recreation, and dark-sky exploration.
Visit Keweenaw’s The Crossing Place (13 April 2026)
On April 13, 2026, I was featured in “Copper Country on the Wing: Birding in the Keweenaw,” an episode of Season 3 of The Crossing Place, a video series produced by Visit Keweenaw that highlights the people, places, and experiences that define Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Drawing on my background as a wildlife biologist, educator, and birding guide, I discussed the region’s remarkable birdlife, the diversity of habitats that make the Keweenaw a premier birding destination, and the peninsula’s role as a natural migration corridor along the Mississippi Flyway. The episode explored how birding can deepen a visitor’s connection to the landscape and showcased the opportunities for residents and visitors alike to experience the rich natural heritage of the Copper Country through birds.
In the April 2026 issue of Marquette Monthly, I was interviewed and my photography was featured as part of a featured story examining Houghton's designation as Michigan's first Upper Peninsula Bird City and the state's only community to achieve High Flyer status through the Bird City - Michigan program. The article explored the ecological significance of the Keweenaw Peninsula as a migration corridor, the community partnerships that contributed to the designation, and the growing role of birding in the region's identity and visitor experience. Through both photographs and commentary, I shared perspectives on the area's birdlife, conservation efforts, and the opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with the natural world through birding and outdoor exploration.
Through the Quiet Hours Gallery Exhibit (16 - 23 January 2026)
From January 16–23, 2026, the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts at Michigan Technological University hosted Through the Quiet Hours, a gallery exhibition presented as part of the Nature by Night series created by the Keweenaw Land Trust in conjunction with National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark with Babak Tafreshi. The exhibit brought together works from local artists inspired by the Keweenaw Peninsula’s nocturnal landscapes, exploring the region’s distinctive night skies and nighttime environments through photography and visual art. I assisted with the organization and installation of the exhibition, and three of my works — The Pine Also Rises, Celestial Harbor, and Ancient Roots, Infinite Skies — were included on display, contributing to a broader celebration of dark-sky awareness, creative interpretation, and the importance of preserving night as both a natural and cultural resource.
New York Times article “Fighting for the ‘Right to Night’ Under Rural, Starry Skies” (24 November 2025)
On November 24, 2025, I was interviewed for the New York Times article “Fighting for the ‘Right to Night’ Under Rural, Starry Skies,” which examined the potential impacts of proposed mining activity on night sky tourism and the broader movement to protect naturally dark skies in rural Michigan. In the interview, I shared perspectives from my work in regional tourism and night sky outreach, discussing how dark skies contribute to both ecological integrity and a growing visitor economy centered on stargazing, aurora viewing, and night photography. The article highlighted the intersection of conservation, community identity, and economic development, and underscored the importance of preserving access to naturally dark skies for future generations.
Great Lakes Aurora Dark-sky Jamboree (11-14 September 2025)
From September 11–14, 2025, I participated in the Great Lakes Aurora Dark-sky Jamboree (GLADJam), hosted by Visit Keweenaw, a multi-day gathering celebrating night sky photography, education, and dark-sky stewardship in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. My involvement included co-hosting a Saturday morning camera chat with fellow photographer Nate Bett, contributing to a Saturday afternoon panel discussion on photographing the Keweenaw night skies alongside Nate Bett and Chris Guibert, and leading a Saturday night dark sky excursion focused on viewing the Milky Way and the northern lights. The weekend brought together photographers, educators, and night sky enthusiasts in shared appreciation of the region’s dark skies and the importance of preserving them for future generations.
GreatLakesNow Article (25 April 2025)
On April 25, 2025, I was featured in the GreatLakesNow article "The Importance of Dark Sky Parks," which explored the growing role of protected dark-sky places in conservation, education, recreation, and community identity. In the interview, I discussed how dark-sky parks help preserve natural nighttime environments while creating opportunities for people to experience the stars, witness phenomena such as the aurora borealis, and develop a deeper appreciation for the night. The article highlighted the value of dark-sky stewardship across the Great Lakes region and the importance of protecting access to naturally dark skies for future generations.
Keweenaw Land Trust Dark Sky Hike (24 April 2025)
On April 25, 2025, in celebration of International Dark Sky Week, I led a Dark Sky Hike at Jacob's Creek, a property managed by the Keweenaw Land Trust. Participants explored the night sky through a blend of natural history, astronomy, and practical observation skills. Along the Lake Superior shore, I introduced a simple technique for measuring distances in the sky using outstretched hands — a pinky finger spans approximately 1 degree, a fist about 10 degrees, and the distance between an extended thumb and pinky about 25 degrees. These easy-to-use reference points help stargazers estimate the positions of celestial objects, navigate the night sky, and better understand astronomical forecasts while deepening their connection to the dark skies of the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival Workshop (24 April 2025)
On April 24, 2025, I was invited to present "Dark Sky Photography and Etiquette" as part of the Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival at the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park. Held at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, the workshop explored techniques for photographing the night sky while emphasizing responsible dark-sky practices, etiquette, and stewardship of nocturnal environments. The session brought together photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and stargazers interested in deepening both their technical skills and their appreciation for the unique dark-sky resources of Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula.
Upper Peninsula Arts & Culture Alliance Article (23 April 2025)
On 23 April 2025, the Upper Peninsula Arts and Culture Alliance issued an article, entitled A Light in the Dark: New Horizons for an Upper Peninsula Photographer, about my experience attending the 2023 Aurora Summit in Red Cliff, WI. It highlighted how my photography benefited from the support they provided for attending as a form of professional development. The grant I was given was funded by the Michigan Arts & Culture Council and managed through the UPACA. The knowledge I gained from renowned experts about the night sky, aurora, and deep space photography; astronomy and space weather; and northern lights art, history, culture and mythology was immeasurable. The event also gave me a network of scientists and artists interested in the northern lights, which I still turn to for growth.
SimplifyLiveLove Article (04 April 2025)
This year, VisitKeweenaw sponsored a media event entitled Keweenaw Snow-Venture 2025 12-16 February 2025. They hired me to provide guided snowshoe hikes and, if weather permitted, photography guidance to any of the participants who were interested. Michelle Marine, with SimplifyLiveLove, included me as #19 in her article about her experience in the Keweenaw (Keweenaw Peninsula in Winter: 21 Perfect Spots for Snowy Fun). Thanks Michelle. It was fun spending the day exploring the Keweenaw with your group.
WZMQ Interview - “Tips for Exploring the Night Sky”
WZMQ 19 News Interview (27 February 2025)
On 27 February 2025, WZMQ 19 News interviewed me for their “Insights” segment on their newscast. The segment was entitled Tips for Exploring the Night Sky.
Visit Keweenaw Blog Post (24 February 2025)
On 24 February 2025, Visit Keweenaw posted a write-up entitled Keweenaw Night Sky Etiquette that I contributed for their blog.
At a location where I was already in position for northern lights pictures, another photographer set-up (and a small group of people with a cell phone) walked in front of me while I was actively taking pictures. I was livid at the moment but decided to make the best of the situation by using such images to teach people what NOT to do.
Milky Way, aurora, air glow, Andromeda, the Pleiades Star Cluster, Jupiter, Uranus, Capella, an airplane, shoreline house lights, car lights on Mt. Brockway, a giant white pine, and an ancient northern white-cedar amidst 4-foot waves on Lake Superior seems to connect a Silver Island visitor to the entire Universe.
Silver Island Artist-in-Residence (27-30 September 2024)
I was sponsored by the Keweenaw Land Trust to be one of their inaugural artists-in-residence at their Silver Island property. My project focused on highlighting the wildlife and night sky views found on the island. I provided a presentation about my time on the island on 11 January 2025 at the Copper Country Community Arts Center along with the other two artists-in-residence, who were there at separate times…Please also check out their work:
Isle Royale Visiting Artist (13-18 September 2024)
I was sponsored by the Copper Country Community Arts Center (CCCAC) and Isle Royale National Park to pilot a program intended to encourage local artists to conduct back-country expeditions on Isle Royale as a means to inspire their art. My project focused on highlighting the beauty and benefits found in the fire-impacted landscapes in the areas encompassing the Horne and amt. Franklin wildfires. I gave a presentation about the excursion on 22 February 2025 at the CCCAC.
A migrating Palm Warbler searches for insects in and around charred trees found at the location of the Horne Fire at Isle Royale.
MACC Professional Development Grant (November 2023)
I was given a professional development grant from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council which helped defray the costs to attend the Aurora Summit in Red Cliff, WI (3-5 November 2023). At the Aurora Summit, I gained knowledge from renowned experts about the night sky, aurora, and deep space photography; astronomy and space weather; and northern lights art, history, culture and mythology and networked with scientists and artists interested in the northern lights. The grant was managed through the UP Arts & Culture Alliance.
Experience Michigan’s Dark Sky Parks and Reserves - Video Interview
Pure Michigan interviewed me for a video highlighting how people can Experience Michigan’s Dark Sky Parks and Reserves. The video was published to YouTube on 26 July 2023.
The single mode, red LED flashlight I use provides sufficient light to allow me to see obstacles and uneven terrain but, due to the red light spectrum it emits, it doesn’t impact my night vision as much as a standard white-light flashlight.
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Blog Post (22 March 2022)
On 22 March 2022, the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge posted a write-up entitled Why red light is better for night-time activities that I contributed for their blog.
A Passport and a Past Life - Photography Exhibit
Nineteen of my original images were on exhibit 03-31 July, 2019, at the Copper Country Community Arts Center, Kerredge Gallery located in Hancock, MI. The photo exhibit centered around images which reflect the influence my past career as a wildlife biologist and my current career as an environmental science educator has on my approach to photography and my overall worldview.
A Passport and a Past Life - Photography Exhibit
Fifteen of my original images were on exhibit 08 October - 08 November, 2018, at the Finlandia University Reflection Gallery, previously located in Hancock, MI. The photo exhibit centered around images which reflect the influence my past career as a wildlife biologist and my current career as an environmental science educator has on my approach to photography and my overall worldview.
23rd Annual Lake Superior Magazine Photo Contest
Tom’s photo “Rainy Day Song Sparrow” was awarded an Honorable Mention (Wildlife) in Lake Superior Magazine’s 23rd Annual Photo Contest. It was published in their February/March 2018 23rd Annual Photo Contest Issue
Rainy Day Song Sparrow
Au Train Lake - Au Train, MI
February/March 2018
Instagram and Website Features (coming soon….)
The following is a collection of Tom’s photo which have been selected to be featured on various Instagram pages and organization websites.