Derek Goodwin

I make my living as a photographer in Western Massachusetts. I became a vegetarian in 1994 after a personal and spiritual awakening in the desert southwest. I went vegan in 1996 because I met some beautiful people whose own examples changed my heart.

My activism began in Rochester, NY. From 1996 until 2000 I became active in the Rochester ADL (now defunct) and the Rochester Area Vegetarian Society. I served on the RAVS board of directors in 1998. In 2000 I left Rochester to move to Northampton, MA.

Currently I am the Photography advisor for Veg News. I also design CD and DVD covers for my good friend Michael Greger, M.D., who is hard at work trying to bring the world to veganism through research and laughter.

My ongoing project is photographing sanctuary animals and animal rights events. I am blessed to be able to contribute my talents to my favorite animal rights organization, Farm Sanctuary. I have photographed all three of their Galas as well as other events (see below). I visit their sanctuaries at least twice a year and spend a few days communing with their wonderful animal ambassadors and trying to capture their spirits on thousands of pixels. My goal is to create images that become windows into the souls of the creatures, because beyond the appearance of their bodies their souls are much like ours. If I can relate that through my work then I feel my work can change hearts. One by one we will light the candles to dispel the darkness of exploitation.

Latest updates - I have just got an award from Farm Sanctuary!. Also, co-hosting a new radio show - Vegan Radio. Oh yeah, I am also the creator and web designer of veganica! Thanks so much for checking out our site!