About Russell

From my earliest memories, animals have brought me a deep and lasting sense of comfort. That connection has stayed with me, shaping the way I experience the natural world and ultimately guiding the work I create today.

I’m a Florida-based wildlife photographer drawn to moments that go beyond simple documentation. My work focuses on capturing emotion, interaction, and atmosphere while preserving the natural scene. My goal is always to create images that feel lived in rather than observed. Many of these moments come from extended periods of patience in the field, learning behavior, and waiting for something meaningful to unfold naturally.

Rather than always chasing rare subjects, I’m often drawn to more familiar ones, returning to the same environments over time to better understand them. This process allows me to create images that reflect not just what an animal looks like, but what it feels like to be present in that moment.

My work has been recognized through multiple awards and exhibitions, and I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with brands and organizations that align with my approach to storytelling through wildlife photography.

The name Russell Mav comes from my middle name, Maverick. I chose my middle name myself when I was adopted in grade school, so it became a meaningful part of my identity long before photography, and it’s the name that now travels with every photograph I share.

I like to think of this as a reflection of independence and a willingness to approach things differently. That mindset carries through my work, where I aim to blend natural behavior with a more artistic and intentional perspective.

At its core, my photography is about connection, the same connection to animals and nature that has been present in my life from the very beginning.