Dan Elster

 Born and raised in Chicago, Dan was the manager of his brother's food distribution business on Chicago’s west side until 2007, when he and his wife, Patty, took a leap of faith. They quit their jobs, sold their home, and hit the road. Patty worked as a travel nurse while Dan pursued photography. Their journey led them to Southern Oregon where Dan discovered his true calling as a wildlife photographer. 

Dan's images are a testament to his deep connection with nature. He finds solace in the stillness, allowing a silent connection to unfold between him and his subjects. His photographs tell stories of resilience, grace, and the delicate balance of life, urging us to cherish and protect the precious ecosystems we share with these magnificent animals.

Through his work, Dan not only shares his artistic vision but, also advocates for conservation and awareness. His photographs serve as a powerful reminder of the fragile beauty that surrounds us and the urgent need to preserve it for future generations. Ten percent of all proceeds from the Big Picture Greeting card line are donated to help wild animals in wild places. Dan dreams of a day when these contributions can be much larger!