MIKE HILLMAN

Mike is a birding, wildlife, adventure, and photography guide whose work centers on understanding animal behavior and translating that knowledge into stronger images in the field. As Photo Expeditions Director for Natural Habitat Adventures, he leads and mentors photographers on immersive expeditions, emphasizing ethical wildlife photography, field awareness, and intentional visual storytelling.

Mike has guided brown and polar bear encounters across Alaska and Canada, including Katmai, Lake Clark, Kodiak Island, and Churchill, Manitoba. His photography guiding spans the United States, Canada, and international destinations from Greenland to Australia, working across a wide range of ecosystems and species.

His professional background includes work in zoos, aquariums, and other nature-focused institutions, where he interpreted wildlife behavior and ecology for the public before transitioning fully into expedition travel and photography leadership.

Mike’s guiding approach blends patience, close observation, and respect for place. He has visited 44 U.S. national parks and more than 100 state parks and national wildlife refuges. He lives in Tucson, Arizona with his wife and son.