Although landscape and nature photography are his recent focus, he has an extensive body of work in architectural, lifestyle, maternity and portrait photography. Petersen has a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in Resource Management and Biology, adding a love of nature to his work. In 2011 Petersen was the Artist in Residence for the National Park Service in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, has received numerous awards and been exhibited at galleries, art fairs and exhibitions throughout Michigan