Kyle Gerstner

A native Kansan who in the early years grew up in the scenic Red Hills outside Medicine Lodge, in the extreme south central part of the state. Throughout his youth, he routinely explored the pastures and valleys surrounding his rural home, and on Sundays his parents would often load he and his two sisters up for rambling drives to enjoy the beautiful red hill landscape. These experiences helped plant an early seed of love for nature and the great outdoors. His grandmother's penchant for taking back road "shortcuts" (that were rarely short, but always fascinating) also left its mark. Kyle followed suit, traveling off-the-beaten-path whenever possible to better view the countryside. The stage was set for development of an avid interest in nature photography that finally began to come into focus in 1998, and within two years he became committed to studying and pursuing nature photography.

Kyle has lived in Lawrence Ks. since 1986 with his wife Janet, and works as a finish carpenter and remodeling contractor. He continues to pursue his love of nature and photography, combining the two at every opportunity. He says he is just like a kid when it comes to seeing a creature for the first time. Whether it's a bird, bug or flower, all are fascinating. Kyle views the world as full of marvels, if we just take the time out of our busy lives to have a closer look.