I'm Mike van der Steen, an amateur photographer living in Australia with a deep love for the outdoors, always drawn to the beauty of natural landscapes, the quiet presence of wildlife, and the small, often overlooked details in nature. Whether it's chasing golden light across a mountain ridge, quietly observing animals in their element, or capturing the textures of leaves and flowing water, I’m constantly inspired by the world around me. Photography gives me a way to slow down, look closer, and share the moments that make being out in nature so rewarding.

Lately, I’ve been hooked on astrophotography. There’s something really special about aiming a camera at the night sky and catching the light from stars and planets that have been traveling for millions of years. It takes time and patience, but the results can be breathtaking—and honestly, it’s kind of mind-blowing.

This website is my little spot to share the photos that have caught my eye and sparked my curiosity. I hope they encourage others to notice the beauty in both the everyday and the more far-flung places. For me, each photo is a reminder of the fun in exploring, learning, and trying to capture that just-right moment.