Cheryl Johnson

Cheryl Johnson is an award-winning wildlife photographer, children's author, and nature educator based in South Texas. Her books, games, and hands-on nature kits inspire curiosity and outdoor exploration by blending vivid photography with kid-friendly science, making complex natural concepts fun and accessible. She regularly visits schools, festivals, and museums to share her passion for birds, critters, and conservation. When she's not photographing wildlife or creating new educational products, Cheryl can be found exploring trails, watching birds, and encouraging young explorers to discover the wonders of the natural world.

“I believe very strongly that you need to follow your passions,” she says. “Everything I’ve ever done, I’ve been very passionate about, although, often, completely unprepared for. My degree is in Religious Studies, yet I ended up in a career in advertising. One day I picked up a camera and decided to take wildlife photos. Several years later, my pictures are winning awards and (shockingly) selling. In 2019 I decided to try my hand at writing a children’s book. The result, ‘My Backyard Bird Book’ was picked up by a publisher and has gone on to sell thousands of copies. I think the biggest lesson I’ve learn on this crazy journey called ‘Life’ is that you can’t be afraid to take chances. Certainly, I’ve failed at many things over the course of my life and career, but I’ve also succeeded at many things, and because I’ve always followed paths that bring me joy, whether I’ve succeeded or failed, I’ve always had the best time!”