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Morning view of Narragansett Bay near Rhode Island Yacht Club with calm water and sunlight reflecting on gentle waves
A serene morning over Narragansett Bay, captured near the Rhode Island Yacht Club, with soft light dancing on the water.

From ISO to Inspiration: Why Photography Isn’t Just Technical

Photography is not the easiest hobby to jump into. It’s full of confusing numbers, strange technical terms, and more buttons than a spaceship console. It can feel intimidating.

The True Art of Seascape Photography: Patience and Presence

But here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to be. Over the years, I’ve been blessed with the chance to wander the world with a camera in hand. From crashing waves to quiet forests, I’ve learned that the most important setting isn’t ISO, aperture, or shutter speed—it’s patience. And a willingness to see beauty where others might walk past.

My hope? That through my work, you’ll see photography isn’t just about gear and numbers—it’s about slowing down, being present, and noticing the world in a new way.

📸✨ Because sometimes, the photo you’re meant to take is waiting quietly for you to breathe and look closer.

Exploring Craft, Creativity, and Emotion in Photography

On Tuesday, September 23 at 7 PM, I’ll be giving a presentation I call “Art of the Seascape” with the Photographic Society of Rhode Island. I’ll be sharing not just some of my favorite photographs, but the stories and techniques behind them. Together, we’ll explore the two roles of a photographer—the craftsman and the artist—and how the relationship between them brings images to life.

And yes, gear will make a cameo. (Let’s be honest, can you really have a photography talk without at least a few minutes of gear chat?) But here’s the real heart of it: we’ll talk about feelings. About how photographs are not just captured—they’re felt. And it’s very OK—even essential—for photographers to have them.

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.

Mike Dooley standing next to a 24x36" metal print of Bodie Island Lighthouse at his Through My Eyes book signing, showcasing the fine art photograph in black and white.

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.

Choose your mindfulness moment from one of my print galleries

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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.

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