About Martin Christopher Perea
For Martin Christopher Perea, photography is more than just capturing images—it’s about telling stories that transcend time and place. His lens seeks to connect the viewer to something raw, real, and deeply meaningful. Over the course of his career, Martin has had the privilege of documenting a diverse array of moments—each frame a testament to his dedication to visual storytelling. From military operations to the wild landscapes of Africa, Martin’s work has always been rooted in the pursuit of truth, beauty, and purpose.
A Journey Begins in the Military
Martin’s journey as a photographer began not in a studio, but in the heart of the New Mexico Army National Guard. As a photojournalist, he was tasked with documenting military life both at home and abroad. These formative years helped him develop not only a deep sense of discipline but also an ability to capture high-stakes moments as they unfolded. His photographs from this period reflect the rawness and intensity of life in motion—images that speak to the complexity of human conflict and camaraderie.
Shaping His Craft in the Public Sector
After his military service, Martin moved on to a quieter, yet equally powerful phase of his career with the New Mexico Department of Transportation. As the department’s staff photographer, he was able to tell the stories of everyday life—from road crews working at sunrise to landscapes shaped by human intervention. His work at the Department of Transportation allowed him to hone his technical skills, while exploring a broader narrative about people’s relationship with their environment.
Building a Commercial Career
In 2004, Martin took a bold leap and launched Martin Christopher Commercial Photography in Phoenix, Arizona. The decision to build a business in the competitive world of commercial photography was a turning point in his career. His work spanned editorial, advertising, and lifestyle, and before long, his reputation led him to over 50 U.S. cities and several countries. As his commercial work flourished, Martin found himself at a crossroads. Though the fast-paced, high-energy world of advertising was rewarding, he felt a growing desire to focus on something deeper—something aligned with his values.
A Deep Connection to Conservation
That yearning led Martin to join the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish in 2013. Here, he would spend nearly a decade documenting the struggles and successes of conservation efforts across some of the country’s most rugged and beautiful landscapes. Working side by side with biologists, game wardens, and wildlife experts, Martin captured intimate and often unseen moments that highlighted the delicate balance of ecosystems and the fight to protect them.
His photos didn’t just tell the story of protected species and conservation challenges; they told a story of hope, resilience, and the critical role that humans play in safeguarding nature. Martin’s work with the Department helped educate the public and inspired action on behalf of our planet’s most vulnerable creatures and ecosystems.
Continuing the Mission
Though Martin retired from his full-time role with the Department of Game and Fish in 2022, his commitment to conservation photography remains unwavering. Now based on the Texas Coast, he continues to capture the beauty and fragility of nature, advocating for environmental preservation through his art. Whether he’s documenting the migration of birds or the interactions between wildlife and their habitats, Martin’s photography serves as a visual call to action.
A Legacy of Purpose
From the fields to the studio, from commercial shoots to conservation efforts, Martin’s career has been a journey of growth, reflection, and purpose. His images aren’t just photographs; they are windows into worlds we might never otherwise see—urging us to look closer, think deeper, and act with intention. For Martin, photography is a way to preserve moments that matter, helping to tell stories that leave an indelible mark on the world.