Meet Anthony Sleiman | Professional Photographer & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anthony Sleiman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anthony, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Photography makes my happy. Being able to go out to remote places in Florida to photograph the night sky is a feeling that will never stop inspiring me and motivating me to continue challenging myself to chase the darkest skies in one of the most light polluted places in the world. Also, through my photography i have educated hundreds of people about light pollution and Everglades conservation making an impact in our society.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I specialize in capturing the Everglades at night. I have spent many nights in remote locations enjoying nature and looking at the milky way galaxy and many the many constellations in the night sky. What sets me apart from others is my passion for capturing our universe in the most remote places of the everglades. I am always challenging myself to go deeper and deeper into beautiful ecosystem we have in our backyard. I am also deeply motivated to educate Floridians about light pollution and with my photography I want to show them what we have and why we need to save it.

My journey began in 2018 when I first picked up a professional camera and ventured into the everglades at night. The challenges I faced were numerous, including the fear of being alone in the dark, but I persevered by pushing myself to pursue my dream. Along the way, I learned that even when our path seems dark, we can always find our way by following the light of our passions.

Today, I am proud to have worked with some of the most important organizations dedicated to preserving the everglades. Through my photography business, I lead tours and workshops that not only teach people about photography but also about the vital role that we play in protecting the environment. I have had the privilege of teaching hundreds of people to appreciate and respect the everglades, and it brings me great joy to know that I am making a positive impact. My story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep love for nature. I hope that my work inspires others to discover their passions, follow their dreams, and make a difference in the world.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the area, I would take them on an adventure of a lifetime! We would start by catching a stunning sunrise in one of my favorite spots in the Everglades, followed by a kayak trip to a backcountry campsite in the National Park. As we explore the Florida Bay and search for wildlife, we’d catch a breathtaking sunset in a remote location before settling down at our campsite. Later in the night, we’d wake up to witness the stunning Milky Way galaxy in all its glory, surrounded by the darkness of the Everglades.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I am grateful to have the opportunity to give a shoutout to those who have made a significant impact on my journey. Firstly, I must give credit to my family. They have instilled in me a strong sense of perseverance, teaching me to never give up and to always fight for what I believe in. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been invaluable to me and have helped me get to where I am today. I would also like to dedicate this shoutout to my wife, who has been my biggest supporter and partner throughout my journey. Her love, patience, and constant encouragement have been my driving force and motivation to push myself beyond my limits. Lastly, I cannot forget my friends who have spent countless nights with me in remote locations, always pushing me to challenge myself and go for more. Their belief in me and my craft has been instrumental in my growth and success. Overall, I am truly grateful to have such a wonderful support system and network of people who have helped shape me into the person and artist I am today. I hope that my story and journey inspire others to always chase their dreams, even when faced with obstacles and challenges.

Website: www.anthonysleiman.com

Instagram: @anthsleiman