Competition: (Zoom) Theme: Close-up, Not Macro with Judge Tom Cuchara

Tom Cuchara is an OM SYSTEM Ambassador, a Photographic Craftsman (PPA), and HonNEC honoree who brings heart, curiosity, and a keen eye to every frame he captures. Specializing in nature photography—especially birds, macro, and night scenes—Tom sees the world as a tapestry of intricate details, hidden stories, and fleeting moments worth preserving. His journey through photography has taken him across varied landscapes and into deep connections with the photographic community.

A natural leader and lifelong learner, Tom has served as President of the New Haven Camera Club, the Connecticut Association of Photographers, and currently serves as Vice President of the New England Camera Club Council (NECCC). He’s also co-chaired numerous NECCC conferences, helping build a vibrant community of photographers who grow through shared experience and creativity. Based in Connecticut, Tom shares both his life and passion for photography with his wife Lisa—his partner in art and adventure. Together they run LisaTom.Photos, offering photo tours, studio workshops, and one-on-one mentoring. Their teaching spans the artistic spectrum—from light painting and macro work to still life and flower photography—blending technical know-how with heartfelt expression.

Tom and Lisa are also published authors, with two acclaimed books through Amherst Media: “Create Fine Art Photographs from Historic Places and Rusty Things” and “The Frog Whisperer: Portraits and Stories.” Their work has been featured in gallery exhibitions, on calendars and magazine covers, and in respected publications like Adirondack Life, Wild Bird, and ABA Birding magazine. Known for his calm presence, clear instruction, and passion for helping others grow, Tom is a trusted mentor and passionate photographer. He and Lisa offer in-person and online classes, post-processing training, and destination photo tours designed to inspire and educate photographers at every level. Their motto is simple yet powerful: “Creativity is contagious—pass it on.” And their approach to photography is equally soulful: “Don’t shoot what it looks like. Shoot what it feels like.”

Explore their work, classes, events, and more at www.LisaTom.Photos, and follow them on Instagram @LisaTom.photos.