As a boy Steffen was inspired by the American landscape during his many visits to the United States from his home in Crailsheim, Germany.  At the age of 18, he immigrated to the U.S. to pursue his interest in photography.  He earned a Bachelor of Art, from Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio in 1983.  He then went on to earn a Master of Fine Art (photography), from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1987.  It was during these years that Steffen formed his artistic vision. His landscape work honors the extraordinary beauty of land and light. His work is not only known for its beauty but also for its environmental message.

His intimate wildlife portraits reflect his deeply rooted passion for nature and wildlife. "My goal with these photographs is to promote an understanding and perhaps impart knowledge about the earth and its inhabitants. Steffen Mittelhaeuser's award winning photography has been exhibited both nationally and internationally in galleries and museums.  His photographs are held in the permanent collections at the Kansas City Art Institute, the Society for Contemporary Photography, and the Ann Arbor Art Museum. His images have been widely published in books and magazines including several Audubon Society publications.

Steffen lives with his family in Port Orange, Florida. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Photography at the Southeast Center for Photographic Studies, Daytona State College, Daytona Beach, Florida.

“It is easy to become absorbed in nature – the only prerequisite is paying attention.”