Outdoor Photographer Magazine Returns
This morning, after posting on Facebook about one of my upcoming Costa Rica photography workshops, I did something I rarely do - scrolled my newsfeed. To my surprise, the top post wasn’t another sponsored ad or random meme. It was from Outdoor Photographer, announcing its official return. That’s right - one of the most beloved nature photography magazines, that disappeared overnight, is making a comeback.
If you’ve been in the photography industry for any length of time, you know that Outdoor Photographer wasn’t just another glossy publication - it was a pillar in the landscape and wildlife photography community. It inspired generations of outdoor photographers, hobbyists, and pros alike, before suddenly shutting down in 2023. Now, in July 2025, Outdoor Photographer is back - with a new team, a new direction, and a lot to prove.
The reactions I've seen so far have been mixed. On one hand, photographers are thrilled because it feels like an old friend has returned. On the other hand, many feel burned because trust was broken. Content creators went unpaid, subscribers lost out, and advertisers - myself included - were left in the dark. That kind of damage takes time to repair.
To their credit, the new Outdoor Photographer leadership appears to be rebuilding thoughtfully. Many former staff members have been rehired. The editorial vision seems more aligned with what photographers actually want - meaningful, artistic, nature-driven content, and the Outdoor Photographer website is back online and functional.
As someone with 35 years in this industry - and a deep passion for landscape photography and sharing it through photography workshops in Costa Rica and the Pacific Northwest - I’m cautiously optimistic. Outdoor Photographer was always a source of creative energy for me and many of my clients. I’d love to see it rise again, not just as a brand, but as a trusted source of inspiration and education for the next generation of nature photographers. But for now, I’m just watching. With fresh leadership and a renewed vision, hopefully this time around Outdoor Photographer can live up to its legacy.
Scott Setterberg
Author