Carl Ellis was born and raised in Erie Pennsylvania and earned his BFA in photography, at Edinboro University in 1991.  He moved to New York City in 1992. Camera in hand, he had hopes of becoming a commercial photographer.

He began his professional career at a pre-press house in Manhattan where he learned the commercial aspects of the industry: from duping film, to account management, and everything in between; including managing a commercial photography studio. Through this experience he soon realized Commercial Photography was not for him. He now manages the retouching department at one of New York City's largest advertising agencies, and keeps photography on a more artistic level.

For the past five years he has volunteered with the Wildlife Conservation Society, headquartered at the Bronx Zoo. In his spare time he has been creating an original photographic documentary of animals in captivity, focusing on the pros of the subject, which he hopes to publish.

Aside from his Zoo Project, Carl focuses on the Natural World, but doesn't limit himself to only Mother Nature. Most of his work is consiered abstract or contemporary. His shooting style combines vivid color, motion, and blur. Rarely using a flash, he prefers natural or existing light.

After living in New York City for fifteen years, he has since moved to where some consider the sixth borough of New York City, Jersey City.

Carl exhibits his work whenever the opportunity presents itself.

carl@carlellisphotograpy.com