Show Me the Ozarks September 2022

“I enjoy the beauty of the natural world, and I enjoy sharing that beauty with others.” – Michael J. Munster

By Savanah Bandy Missouri’s NATURAL BEAUTY

Michael J. Munster’s passion for nature and wildlife led him to capture images to share with the world

M ichael J. Munster is living proof that following your passion can lead to some truly remarkable things. The photographer and owner of Green Heron Photography is renowned for his vivid photographs capturing Missouri’s beauty. His images depicting Missouri wildlife, historical sites and natural wonders have captured the hearts of Missourians for decades, but 2 years ago, his work landed on the national stage. In 2020, four of Michael’s images were published in The Atlantic in a feature titled, “Missouri: Images of the Show Me State.”

“It felt great to see my work being published, particularly in something like The Atlantic ,” he said. “The article was on the most beautiful spots in Missouri, so I was honored for my photos to be selected. Plus, they had used not just one but multiple images of mine. So, that also made it even more rewarding.” His photos featured in The Atlantic showcase Onondaga Cave, George Washington Carver National Monument, Grand Falls, and Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield . Some may be surprised to learn Michael J. Munster is entirely self-taught. “ I have never taken any formal classes on photography,” he said. “I learned everything from either reading books and magazines or from YouTube videos from other photographers or just my own personal experience via trial and error.” Michael has always loved nature and seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. He first became interested in photography as a way to capture what he saw.

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