Meet Adam Marquis | Portrait Photographer & Ecologist

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

Hi Adam, what inspires you?
I draw my inspiration from the natural world, particularly snakes and reptiles. Their beauty, elegance, and often misunderstood nature drive much of my creative work. Observing their intricate patterns, movements, personalities, and behaviors never fails to captivate me, and I strive to capture these elements in my photography to share their magic with others.

In addition to my love for reptiles, I am fascinated by people and the unique stories they carry. Capturing the essence of a person through my lens, whether in their expressions or interactions, is incredibly inspiring. The intersection of human and animal subjects in my work allows me to explore and highlight the connections between us and the natural world. This blend of inspirations fuels my creativity and guides my artistic vision.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art revolves around capturing the intricate beauty and elegance of snakes and reptiles through fine art and portrait photography. What sets my work apart is the unique blend of these often misunderstood creatures with the expressive qualities of portrait photography. By showcasing the natural grace and intricate details of snakes, I aim to shift perceptions and foster a deeper appreciation for these fascinating animals.
I am most proud of the impact my work has had on changing people’s views about snakes. Seeing viewers transform their initial fear or apprehension into admiration and respect for these creatures is incredibly rewarding. I am also excited about my upcoming first gallery show, which represents a significant milestone in my career and an opportunity to reach a wider audience.
Getting to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. Transitioning from a corporate job to pursuing my passion for photography required a leap of faith and overcoming numerous challenges. Financial instability and societal perceptions were significant hurdles. I often had to balance making a living with staying true to my artistic vision. However, my dedication to my craft, coupled with the unwavering support of my partner Kathy, helped me navigate these difficulties. I focused on continuously improving my skills, learning new techniques, and educating people about the beauty of snakes.
The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable. Persistence and resilience are key; pursuing a creative career demands unwavering dedication and the ability to adapt to challenges. I’ve also learned the importance of staying true to my passion and vision, even when it seems difficult. Building a community of supporters and advocates has been crucial, as their encouragement and belief in my work have kept me motivated.
I want the world to know that my brand and story are rooted in a genuine love and respect for animals, especially snakes, and a desire to share their beauty with others. Through my photography, I aim to bridge the gap between human and animal worlds, fostering understanding and appreciation for the natural elegance of these creatures. My work is not just about creating beautiful images; it’s about changing perceptions, educating, and celebrating the wonders of the natural world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Denver for a week, I’d want to ensure they experience the best the city and its surroundings have to offer. We’d start with exploring downtown Denver, visiting the Denver Art Museum, and enjoying delicious meals from local food trucks and some of my favorite spots like Finn’s Manor or Improper City. A highlight would be attending a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, always an unforgettable experience with its stunning natural acoustics and gorgeous views. We would also have to get to a show at Cervantes, one of my favorite venues in the city!
We’d take a day trip to Boulder to hike the Flatirons and stroll along Pearl Street Mall, enjoying the local shops and eateries. To immerse ourselves in nature, we’d spend a couple of days camping and hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, searching for wildlife and soaking in the beautiful scenery. Back in Denver, we’d relax at the Denver Botanic Gardens, explore the RiNo Art District, and enjoy rooftop dining at places like Linger and Avanti.
I truly appreciate the vibrant mix of culture and nature that Denver offers. With incredible music, artistic/creative vibes, interesting people, and the tranquility of the mountains a stones throw away, there’s really something special about this city. This itinerary would provide my friend with a genuine taste of the diverse and dynamic experiences that make Denver such a fantastic place to live and visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate a shoutout to my partner, Kathy, who has been my constant source of support and inspiration. Her unwavering belief in my work and her love for our animals have been invaluable. Kathy’s encouragement and enthusiasm have helped me navigate the challenges of pursuing a creative career.

I’d also like to give a special shoutout to my mentor, Jose Garcia. He has been an inspiration, has given me invaluable guidance that has helped me hone my craft, and I have been proud to help him build a community of creatives supporting each other called Creatives of Colorado.

Additionally, I want to recognize the incredible community of reptile enthusiasts and conservationists who work tirelessly to educate and advocate for these amazing creatures. Their passion and dedication inspire me daily and have been instrumental in shaping my understanding and appreciation of snakes.

Lastly, I’d like to give credit to the countless photographers and artists whose work I’ve admired over the years. Their creativity and innovation continually push me to grow and explore new avenues in my own photography. Each of these influences has played a crucial role in my journey, and I am grateful for their contributions to my story.

Website: https://www.ophidianproductions.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ophidianlens/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553276531136

Other: https://ophidianlens.pixieset.com

Image Credits
Jose Garcia
@Rae-Alistic
Izaya Pointon
Josiah Arment
Stevie (@retrowraith)
Brianna Lynn
Megan Banich
Bree Adair
Aimee Landsen