Mike is an Aperture Academy instructor specializing in landscape photography. A sample of his work is posted below, and you can learn more about him by reading his bio. If you'd like to know more, or follow his work, check out the links at the end of his bio.

My name is Mike Wardynski, AKA Nature Mike.

I’m a landscape and travel photographer based out of Oakland California. Although the city is where I live, nature is where I feel at home. Growing up in rural Michigan, I had the desire to travel and document my adventure along the way.

After graduating with a broadcasting degree and realizing I was a much better photographer than musician, I packed up my van and headed out west to a little park known as Yosemite. There I would spend the next three and a half years working in the wilderness department for The Yosemite Conservancy. It was during those years that I deliberately made the decision to dive headfirst into the photographic rabbit hole for good. While working in the park, I spent much of my time lugging camera gear around the high country and hanging out with my friends at the Ansel Adams Gallery.

I currently reside in the SF Bay Area where I work as a photography instructor. My travels have given me the opportunity to photograph the erupting Kiluaea volcano from air, as well as document dolphins in the Pacific Ocean. I’ve witnessed unbelievable light unfold before me and in an instant disappear. Those are the moments that I live for. I love sharing my passion for photography and nature with others and I’m grateful for the path that has lead me here.

• Mike's website
• Mike's Facebook
• Mike's Instagram

You will be learning from only the best!

• Brian Rueb
• Mike Wardynski
• DeAnna Roberts
• Mary Cheung
• Kevin Schofield
• Ellie Stone
• Stephen Oachs