From the moment I first held my father’s Praktica T-1000 in 1982, I was captivated by the magic of photography-the power to freeze time and spark joy in others. That camera became my passport to adventure, capturing candid moments on school trips and beyond, and igniting a lifelong passion.

A few years later, I set my sights on the electrifying world of lightning photography. Armed with a sturdy tripod and a sense of wonder, I chased storms across Oklahoma skies. My images caught the eye of a local TV meteorologist, who showcased my work on the evening news and challenged me with a bold request: “Can you get me a tornado?” My answer was simple: “Get me to it and I’ll capture it.” That challenge became my calling.

As the years rolled on, my lens found new stories to tell. In 1991, I dusted off my camera and began shooting for The Newcastle Pacer, covering everything from high school football to community events. My work earned me press credentials, but more importantly, it deepened my love for storytelling through images.

The evolution of technology brought sharper tools and bigger dreams. In 1993, I reconnected with that meteorologist and joined forces with a legendary storm chaser. For two unforgettable Oklahoma storm seasons, I documented the raw power of nature-mesocyclonic storms, tornadoes, and the human spirit that faces them. My fascination led me to train with the National Weather Service, earning my Skywarn Spotter certification-a title I proudly share by helping others become certified and stay safe.

Life’s next chapter brought love, family, and new adventures. Photography took a brief pause, but in 2006, as my youngest hit the football field, I returned to the sidelines-this time as a digital sports photographer. Oklahoma Photogenics was born, and for nearly a decade, I captured the triumphs and teamwork of high school athletes across the state.

Since then, my camera has taken me across the hemisphere-from the sun-kissed beaches of St. Martin to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, and the breathtaking landscapes of the American West. While I specialize in landscape and real estate photography, I thrive on collaborating with people-creating unforgettable senior portraits, family memories, and wedding stories.

The world changed in 2020, and so did I. Photography became a family affair once again, and in January 2021, I rebranded as Orion Photogenics-reflecting my newfound passion for astrophotography and a desire to reach beyond Oklahoma. Today, my creative journey continues in the stunning Four Corners region, where I capture the dramatic beauty of Farmington, New Mexico, and beyond-including the vibrant activities and events in nearby Durango, Colorado, a hub for culture, adventure, and community gatherings. My lens also finds inspiration in the island paradise of the Florida Keys.

Let’s create something extraordinary together. I can’t wait to capture your next adventure!

Lee Kuhlman

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Lee now calls Farmington, New Mexico home, where he lives with his wife Elizabeth, and their oversized orange tabby, Toby. His son Jacob now lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma, while his daughter Micah and son-in-law Daniel, along with their beautiful granddaughter Heron, are adventuring in Colorado.