Michael A. Milicia
The Bedford Free Public Library
March 13 – May 15, 2008

contact:milicia@verizon.net
(781) 275-8285

The main objective of my photography is to capture images of birds and other wildlife
in their natural habitat with an aesthetic appeal that goes beyond simply documenting
the species. I strive to create a visual and emotional impact that can be appreciated
regardless of the viewer’s familiarity with the subject matter. I am motivated by a love
of nature, a fascination with wildlife, and the never-ending challenge of finding that
perfect combination of good light, cooperative subject, attractive setting, and beautiful
background that allows me to create an artistically pleasing image. The photographs
are a great reward for my efforts, but the opportunity to observe closely the natural
behavior of wild creatures in their native environment is often an even greater reward.

I have always had a passing interest in photography but it was not until fall of 2002 that
I began to make a determined effort to create quality images. My initial guidance came
from careful study of John Shaw’s “Nature Photography Field Guide” and Arthur Morris’
“The Art of Bird Photography”. The latter also gave me an entirely new appreciation for
birds, which would soon become my favorite photographic subjects. My skills were
further enhanced by subsequent participation in workshops and seminars led by
John Shaw, Arthur Morris, Rod Planck, John & Barbara Gerlach, and the
Rocky Mountain School of Photography.

Progress toward my photographic goals picked up dramatically in the spring of 2005 when I simultaneously converted to digital capture, obtained my first super telephotolens
(500mm f/4), and began to pursue photography on a full-time basis. Digital technology
has enabled me to develop my craft much more rapidly than I ever could have done with film. It has also given me the added advantage of having complete control over the entire photographic process from image capture to print.

I live in Bedford, Massachusetts, which is conveniently located near the Concord
impoundment of the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge where I am a regular visitor
in search of photographic subjects. Some of my other favorite locations include the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, the American and Canadian Rockies, and Southwest Florida. I have had the good fortune to witness and record some wonderful moments in nature and it gives me great pleasure to be able to share these experiences through my photographs.