The Duck Brothers for Audubon
This spring, we had the privilege of photographing Bob, Jim, and Joe Hautman—three Minnesota brothers whose extraordinary talent has defined the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest for more than three decades.
On a chilly May morning west of Minneapolis, we followed the brothers as they revisited the woods and wetlands that shaped their childhood—and joined them in the duck blind where they patiently watch and photograph waterfowl for artistic reference. Waiting quietly for the right moment was its own kind of meditation—a refreshing break from the pace of photographing people that usually fills our days.
Since the 1980s, the Hautmans have combined for an astonishing 16 Federal Duck Stamp victories, helping raise millions for conservation. Just after our assignment wrapped, Jim set a new record—his seventh win—with a stunning painting of three Buffleheads in flight.
Read the full story by Audubon: “The Hautman Brothers’ Secret to Duck Stamp Dominance? It’s All in the Family.”
