Mark S. Peterson is a natural history and global travel photographic artist from Ames, Iowa. A former advertising industry photographer, Peterson’s fine art nature, landscape and global travel images explore the beauty of the natural landscape, the details of the natural world, and the icons that define cultures and locations. His hope is that his photographs will foster within the viewer a desire to conserve he Earth’s natural resources, and a greater appreciation for the diverse cultures of our world.

Peterson has been photographing since age seven, and his work has appeared in books, magazines, national advertising campaigns, corporate and non-profit annual reports, and websites. His client list include such diverse organizations as Ames National Corporation, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Better Homes & Gardens Special Interest Media, Central Bank, Delta Dental of Iowa, Iowa Environmental Council, Iowa State University, Latrobe Brewing, People Inc., Surreal Beauty Magazine, think Marketability, The Farm Journal Foundation, and Visit Grand Junction. His fine art photographs have been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in art galleries and public spaces around the Midwest, and appear in private, corporate, and university collections in the U.S. and Europe.

Peterson has been a juror for photography competitions such as the Iowa State Fair Photography Salon, Silos and Smokestacks National Photo Contest, and for many camera clubs. He has juried art exhibits for organizations such as Iowa Arts Council, Iowa State University, Octagon Center for the Arts, and others. He teaches photography through his own “Peterson Photo Workshops” enterprise, and for other photography education agencies.

NEWS! Mark has been selected for the prestigious 2026 Artist-in-Residence program at Weir Farm National Historical Park near Wilton, Connecticut. Weir Farm NHP refers to itself as “The National Park for Art.” It is a National Park dedicated to the history and pursuit of contemporary American art, and focuses on connecting people of all ages to art, nature, and conservation. Mark will reside and work in the Park for the entire month of August, 2026. The National Park Service press release announcing Weir Farm NHP’s 2026 AIR program can be found at https://www.nps.gov/wefa/learn/news/weir-farm-nhp-announces-2026-artists-in-residence.htm.

Working with a carefully-developed digital printing process and meticulous attention to detail, Peterson’s photographs are printed in his own studio using archival pigment inks and the best-available fine art photographic papers. Photographs are mounted and matted with acid-free, archival materials to ensure longevity.

Peterson has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Simpson College, and an MBA from The University of Iowa. His work can be seen at www.mpetersonphoto.com.

Mark is available for fine art commission, and on a selective basis for commercial or editorial assignment.