Jim Brandenburg, the renowned Minnesota wildlife photographer, passed away on Friday at his home in Medina. He was 79 years old. Brandenburg had been receiving treatment for anaplastic thyroid cancer for the past seven months and had also been dealing with complications from pneumonia this year, according to a post on his social media page.
The award-winning photographer enjoyed a remarkable career capturing the beauty and essence of the wild. In 2023, he was honored with the National Geographic Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his immense contributions to the field of wildlife photography. “Please hold his wife Judy, daughter Heidi and her husband Nels Pierson, grandchildren Olivia, Liam, and Lindsey, and all those who loved Jim in your hearts by taking a walk in nature, looking up at the clouds and feel the transformation of Jim’s energy back into the Universe,” the post said.
Brandenburg’s work has left an indelible mark on the world of photography, inspiring countless individuals through his stunning imagery and dedication to nature conservation. His friend and colleague, Layne Kennedy, spoke fondly of Brandenburg’s talent and gentle nature.
Legacy of Jim Brandenburg remembered
“There was a visual poetry to his work and a musical quality to it as well,” Kennedy said. “I don’t know! I can’t describe it. It’s just different than everybody else’s.”
Kennedy emphasized that despite his incredible achievements, Brandenburg remained humble and approachable.
“He was never intimidating, but rather a gentle man and easy to talk to,” he added. The Bell Museum, which features a permanent video exhibit created and narrated by Brandenburg titled “Images from Home,” is preparing to showcase more of his work in the coming weeks as a tribute to his life and legacy. “We are already working to bring out more of his art in the next few weeks,” said Holly Menninger, Executive Director of the Bell Museum.
“This loss hits hard here. You can see Jim’s work in all of the large format photography throughout the museum.”
Brandenburg’s passion for nature and his commitment to sharing it with others will continue to inspire future generations through his photographs and the Touch the Sky Prairie Foundation, which has purchased over 1,000 acres of northern, tall grass prairie for the public’s enjoyment. As the community mourns the loss of this legendary photographer, his work will live on, celebrating the beauty and importance of the natural world he so deeply cherished.
