A native of Minnesota, Levi grew up in the outdoors and spends as much time as possible in God's creation with his family and Drahthaar, Eika. He is passionate about using photography to shed a positive light on hunting and the community surrounding it.

THE ONE DOG YOU'LL NEVER FORGET?

Ralph, my first Drahthaar and my first bird dog. There is just something about your first dog that you will never forget.

FAVORITE SPECIES TO HUNT WITH YOUR DOG?

Tough question. I am torn between waterfowl and hunting grouse.

FAVORITE HUNTING STORY WITH EIKA?

There are so many memories, but one that sticks out in my mind was Eika’s first waterfowl retrieve.

There is so much anticipation and anxiety about how they will perform when it comes down to the real thing.

A single wood duck came in and my buddy Bryan made a great shot on it. It was the perfect situation for a new pup and she was able to see the bird go down.

I think it is important to set them up for success early on. It was very rewarding to see her retrieve that bird after all the work we had done in the offseason.

WHERE DOES YOUR PASSION FOR DOGS ORIGINATE?

I think it comes from growing up with them, and seeing my mom and dad’s passion for them.

WHAT'S A SKILL MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW YOU HAVE?

I was a former Minnesota state open turkey calling champion.

IF YOU COULD BE ANY DOG BREED (BESIDES THE ONE YOU OWN), WHICH WOULD IT BE?

For the uplands, it would have to be a pointer. The way they move and cover ground appears to be effortless. For duck hunting, a lab. They always seem to be lax or focused – and let's face it, they look great whether they are dry or wet. My Draht typically looks like a drowned rat when she is wet.

WHO'S YOUR HERO?

My dad, for sharing his passion for the outdoors and always taking the time to include me as much as possible.