About
Hello! I’m Mary Kate Ahkin (Ahles), a marketing manager, photographer, surfer, sailor, and full-time Great Lakes advocate.
With a degree in Sustainability Management, I merge environmental stewardship with creative strategy to support businesses, nonprofits, and communities in building a future that thrives alongside the natural world. Whether developing campaigns, capturing compelling imagery, or amplifying conservation efforts, my work is grounded in protecting the places that inspire me.
I proudly call the Village of Calumet on Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula home — a region shaped by its rugged shorelines and resilient communities. Here, I volunteer as marketing coordinator for Surfrider Northern Michigan, occasionally photograph for the Trout Unlimited Great Lakes Chapter, and stay actively engaged as a member of the Great Lakes Business Network.
Originally from Neenah, Wisconsin, I grew up with an enduring connection to water and storytelling. Summers spent lifeguarding and working at an island camp deepened my appreciation for lake life and boating, while time with creative mentors at Scanlan Studios and Pheifer Photography helped me channel that passion into visual storytelling.
Since moving to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 2018 to attend Northern Michigan University, I’ve devoted my career and creative energy to elevating Great Lakes stories — preserving not only the landscapes we cherish, but the communities that depend on them.
Where Storytelling Fuels Stewardship
Photography and marketing have been passions of mine since I started my small business in high school. Over the years, I've balanced my love for the creative arts with an interest in environmental and political science. This unique blend of interests led me to pursue a degree in sustainability management, where I've continued to weave my creative and analytical skills together. My journey has been one of integrating artistry with purpose, driven by my commitment to both impactful storytelling and sustainable practices.
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My favorite software and tools include Lightroom CC for photo editing, Procreate for digital drawing, and Adobe Creative Suite for side projects like design and video editing. I also rely on Notion for life planning and organization, keeping everything streamlined and efficient. Additionally, I use Tableau, Squarespace, WordPress, HubSpot, and Meta Planner on a weekly basis for data analysis, website management, content creation, and planning.
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I shoot with Canon for photography and DJI for aerial images. My iPad Pro has been invaluable for drawing, note-taking, contract signing, and design. I rely on LaCie hard drives, regularly expanding my storage.
My home computer and self-built server, which I created in 2022, are essential for time management and image quality. I appreciate the big screen, fast performance, and the quiet hum of my server.
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What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity and science with a commitment to sustainability. As a photographer and marketing professional, I focus on storytelling, community, and environmental impact. My diverse background in photography, conservation, and marketing allows me to tackle challenges from multiple angles, delivering solutions that are both visually compelling and socially responsible. I’m dedicated to sharing stories that inspire positive change, whether through imagery or strategic messaging.
I can also swim and surf in subfreezing temperatures. Michigan Tech, one of the schools I attended during undergrad, always emphasized tenacity and I truly believe the students who surf are some of the most tenacious people I know. After lectures and homework wrapped up, we’d head to the lake to chase six-foot waves in 15-degree weather, letting ice build up on our faces as we paddled out. A definition of tenacity to me.
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I truly take pride in most of the projects and work I’ve done. Documenting the lives of loved ones, sharing memories, and meeting hundreds of people through my photography business brings me great joy and my younger self proud. I also take immense pride in all the conservation work I’ve completed, especially as a Michigan resident. While I wasn’t born and raised in the region, it has been a rewarding challenge to connect with groups and individuals dedicated to preserving our watershed. From documenting a dam removal project to restore a native trout stream, to helping local beaches protect their shorelines from encroaching development, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to meaningful environmental efforts.
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Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region through activities like surfing, skiing, and sailing. I’m passionate about connecting with nature and staying active outdoors. I also dedicate time to my local community, working to build stronger, more connected relationships through volunteer work and conservation efforts. In my downtime, I love spending time with family and friends, traveling to warmer places, and enjoying a good book or documentary that expands my knowledge of the world. My latest passion is restoring my home, which was built in 1899 and hanging with my dog Ursula.
Software Proficiencies








GET IN CONTACT
GET IN CONTACT
Email
mkahles@mtu.edu
mary@marykatestudios.com
Phone
(920) 284-3286