About Neil Baalman

Growing up along the Mississippi River has certainly had a large impact on my life and who I am today. I’ve always enjoyed spending time on the river, whether it was hunting, fishing, hiking, exploring, or just relaxing. It has always been a place that I considered home. The Mississippi River introduced me to a wide variety and abundance flora and fauna, which has helped me gain a large knowledge base and experience. My strong interest in the natural world, coupled with my expressionistic background surely fueled my desire for photographing plants and animals. At the age of 10 I received my first camera and was immediately hooked.

Today, I take every opportunity I can to get out, adventure, and photograph wildlife in action. My galleries consist of a diversity of many species, mostly native to Missouri, however waterfowl have inspired me the most; I especially enjoy spending the day from sunrise to sunset in the wetlands studying their behaviors and habits. Countless hours in the field perfecting my stalking skills and building my patience has helped me better appreciate the spectacles of nature. I hope that my work conveys the love and respect I have for nature and helps others be inspired by the natural world.

I am currently a sophomore at Southeast Missouri State studying environmental sciences in hopes of starting a career in wetlands biology and management.