Kelley Luikey is an award-winning fine art photographer celebrated for her ethereal, painterly bird imagery. Based in South Carolina, she has developed a distinctive soft, dreamy style that captures the intimate beauty of her subjects with uncommon artistry. Her photographs have earned top recognition in national and international competitions, including the National Audubon Society and the North American Nature Photographers Association. Through her work, instruction, and conservation efforts, Kelley inspires others to see and protect the extraordinary world of birds.
We’re excited to share a collection of captivating photographs captured by Luikey. Scroll down to explore her work and learn more about the photographer behind these remarkable images.
More info: KelleyLuikey.com | Instagram | Facebook
#1 Feels So Good
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
When asked about her first bird love, or “spark bird,” Kelley said: “For me, the bird that started it all – and still is my favorite subject – was the Roseate Spoonbill! Why? Because they are pink! If I heard there were some Roseate Spoonbills hanging out in an area when my kids were little, I would bribe them $10 each to come with me to photograph them. I am not sure what kind of parent that makes me, but hopefully they have fond memories of searching for the pink birds.”
#2 Forest Flame
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#3 A Little Floof
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
Kelley’s work also has a strong conservation message. “Our birds are under more pressure than ever as habitat loss and climate change continue to take shape. My hope is that my images inspire others to care about the birds in their backyard and beyond. Nothing makes me happier than when someone tells me that my images got them hooked on birds! I give back to my local birds by donating 2% of my sales and 100% of my speaking fees to Audubon South Carolina.”
#4 Ballerina Bird
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#5 Camargue Magic
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#6 Ondis Play
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#7 Puff In Moon
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#8 Ruffled
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#9 Ibis And The Fairy Bugs
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#10 Pair Of Pink
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#11 Rufous Tail
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#12 Skimmer
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#13 Enchanted Oak
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#14 Sitting Pretty
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#15 Spoon Feeding
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#16
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#17 Nesting Spot
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#18 Southern Soul
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#19 August Morning
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#20 In The Rain
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#21 Seaside Smooch
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#22 Amidst The Giants
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
#23 Summer Boy
Image credits: naturemuseimagery
