Share with friends:
Seascape photography - "Rocky Sunrise at Pt Judith Lighthouse". A fine art photograph of the rugged coastline of Rhode Island guarded by the Pt Judith Lighthouse
Rocky Sunrise at Pt Judith Lighthouse

From Waves to Hope: My Return to the Wickford Art Association

🌊 I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be presenting to the wonderful folks at the Wickford Art Association on September 8th at 6:30 PM! I’ll be giving one of my favorite talks, The Art of the Seascape.”

Mike Dooley sitting on the rocks at Beavertail State Park, behind his tripod with camera filters and spirit level in place, preparing to photograph the ocean at sunset."

A Special Presentation

This event is particularly meaningful to me—it will be the first time I’ve presented since my spinal cord surgery 15 months ago.

I’m beyond excited to share my work again, but I’d be lying if I said I’m not also nervous as hell.

Standing behind my camera is one thing—but standing in front of a room full of people after such a long hiatus? That’s a whole new wave to ride.

A Full Circle Moment

What makes this even more special is that it was a presentation at the Wickford Art Association years ago that first sparked my journey into teaching. That one talk led me to lead countless photography workshops, from Rhode Island seascape photography to portrait sessions, from Lightroom editing tips to lighting techniques—and I’ve loved every minute of it.

Mike Dooley teaching in a classroom setting, standing at the front and leading a photography lesson for workshop participants.

What to Expect

During this talk, I’ll share a collection of beautiful coastal seascape images, many of which were created right here in Rhode Island.

I’ll pull back the curtain on the techniques and tricks I use to create seascapes that tell a story. From composition to lighting to the subtle art of layering, you’ll get a glimpse of what goes into crafting images that capture emotion, beauty, and atmosphere.

For anyone interested in learning photography, this is a rare chance to see how I approach a seascape shoot from start to finish.

Hope and Inspiration

This presentation isn’t just about photos—it’s about hope, perseverance, and rediscovering the joy of sharing your passion. After months of recovery and uncertainty, being able to step back into this role, to connect, to teach, and to inspire, is a reminder that even after the stormiest tides, there’s a horizon waiting to be seen. Every wave I’ve captured reminds me that beauty—and resilience—can exist even in the roughest waters.

Mike Dooley standing on a sandy beach with the Atlantic Ocean and blue skies in the background, representing his seascape photography work.

Join Me!

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone who appreciates a stunning view of the ocean, I promise it will be an evening full of beauty, insight, and inspiration—and maybe a few nerves too.

This event is open to the public, and I am excited to see both new faces and old friends. I’d love for you to join me on this journey back to the stage and into the heart of the seascape.

Share with friends:

Mike Dooley

Mike is a photographer, storyteller, and educator who sees the world through a lens of transformation. His work blends technical mastery with emotional depth—inviting viewers to not just see, but feel. Whether guiding learners through the art of visual storytelling or capturing the quiet poetry of Rhode Island’s landscapes, Mike creates spaces where vulnerability meets clarity. He’s the author of Through My Eyes and the voice behind Behind The Print, a podcast that explores the heart behind the image.

Leave a Reply

Close Menu