Wade Mortenson

Artist Statement

I am a nature and wildlife photographer based in Encinitas, California. My primary focus is on seascapes and wildlife, capturing animals in their natural habitats.
I'm known for spending hours in the field—often before sunrise or after sunset—obsessing over exposure, composition, and perspective to get everything just right. That same attention carries over to post-processing, where I fine-tune every detail on the computer.
I print all my own archival paper prints, using high-quality, fade-resistant materials that allow me to offer accessible pricing so my art reaches a wider audience. For more discerning clients, I partner with two specialized printing companies: one for stunning metal prints created through dye-sublimation (infusing vibrant, durable images directly onto aluminum), and another for the highest-end option—Fujiflex Crystal Archive prints face-mounted to acrylic, delivering exceptional depth, sharpness, and longevity.
For every print, I produce test proofs and make meticulous Photoshop adjustments until the final piece perfectly matches my vision—ready for full-size printing and delivery to clients.
As much as I love capturing these moments, I enjoy sharing the art and the stories behind it almost as much. I thrive on connecting with new people at art shows, gallery exhibitions, and receptions—talking about the images, the wildlife encounters, and the process that brought each one to life.
As it turns out I enjoy sharing my art and the stories that go with it almost as much as capturing it. I love interacting with new clients at art shows, gallery showings and receptions.