My name is Sam Ettinger, and I am a Wildlife and Nature Photographer with a deep passion for capturing the beauty and resilience of animals in their natural habitats. From an early age, I’ve been inspired by nature—fascinated by everything from the vastness of space and the depths of the ocean to towering mountains and the smallest creatures on Earth. That curiosity has shaped who I am and continues to drive my work today.

I began my journey as a birder, spending hours with bird encyclopedias, memorizing species and studying their behaviors. With a small bridge camera in hand, I would head outdoors, determined to identify and photograph as many birds as I could. I still remember the moment I captured a clear shot of a White-crowned Sparrow—it was then that I knew I wanted to pursue wildlife photography seriously.

Like any creative path, it wasn’t always easy. I quickly realized that becoming a skilled wildlife photographer takes time, patience, and persistence. There were moments of frustration, but my unwavering passion for wildlife and storytelling kept me going. With every challenge, I grew stronger and more dedicated to my craft.

Now whenever I have the opportunity, I dedicate my time to photographing wildlife and the natural world. I seek to capture the majestic beauty that nature offers—whether it's the melodic songs of birds at dawn or the haunting call of a great horned owl hunting under a full moon. With camera in hand, I strive to frame compelling compositions that reflect the wonder unfolding before me.

My explorations take me from coastal shores, where whales and shorebirds thrive, to arid deserts inhabited by vultures and prairie dogs. I hike to towering peaks and remote landscapes, always in search of the next moment that reveals the untamed brilliance of the wild. Through my lens, I aim to experience and share the richness and diversity of the natural world.