About Hayley

Their journey into photography began while spending time in Costa Rica in 2023 during a Sustainability Leadership course through John Hopkins University. Captivated by the wildlife and natural landscapes, they picked up their phone to document the incredible scenes around them. John Weller, a professional photographer and the husband of Hayley's PhD advisor, recommended getting a Panasonic Lumix. That piece of advice proved to be invaluable. What started as a personal project soon became an important part of their conservation work. Hayley discovered that photography not only allowed them to capture the beauty of the environment but also offered a powerful means to communicate the importance of preserving it.

Hayley Kwasniewski is an environmental scientist and photographer, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies. With a passion for conservation, they have dedicated their career to studying and protecting the natural world. Holding a Master’s degree in Environmental Policy and Science, Hayley is well-versed in both the scientific and policy-driven aspects of environmental protection. Their photography work blends their scientific expertise with their creative vision.

They are drawn to the idea that their photographs can make an often inaccessible environment more tangible and relatable to people who might never experience them firsthand. Through their images, Hayley hopes to bridge the gap between research and public understanding.

As they continue to work toward their Ph.D., Hayley is committed to blending their scientific research with their artistic pursuit with the unwavering goal to bring environmental issues into the spotlight and inspire positive change.