Behind the Lens: A Conversation with Michael Quigley

If you’ve followed SeeKankakee, you’ve already seen the world through Michael Quigley’s lens. As the visual storyteller behind many of our favorite local views, Michael captures the vibrant wildlife and quiet moments that make our area special.

Michael shares with us how he gets those incredible shots and what he hopes you see when you look at them.

1. What inspired you to start photographing nature?

For Michael, it’s all about perspective.

"What got me into it was the ability to see wildlife up close," he shares. "With a long lens, you see more detail and more color. Most people never get the chance to see nature from that vantage point."

2. What advice do you have for aspiring photographers?

You don’t need a bag full of expensive gear to start. Michael’s advice is simple: Just start shooting.

"Anything and everything," he says. "Use your iPhone even! It’s all digital now, so it’s fairly easy to practice without the worry of film."

3. Any memorable stories from the field?

Wildlife photography is a game of patience and surprises. Michael recalls spending hours waiting for a raptor to take flight, hoping for that perfect "blastoff" shot, only to have the bird fly in the opposite direction before he could click the shutter.

"But you also have those 'magic' moments," Michael adds. "Sometimes a bird or animal will perch right next to you and seemingly pose. You truly never know what to expect."

4. What do you want people to take away from your work?

Beyond just a pretty picture, Michael hopes his photos serve as a reminder of the world we live in.

"I hope people appreciate the details and the colors—feather detail is some of the most beautiful artwork there is. I hope it helps them appreciate the true beauty of nature all around them, every day."

Want to see more of Michael’s work?

He posts regularly on the Kankakee County Wildlife Facebook page. If you follow the page you will see his work and the work of other amazing nature photographers.