Michael Halminski grew up in a Navy family and always lived near an ocean. Out of the house and done with school, Michael moved to Hatteras Island on a whim in 1973, where he became attracted by the environment and people. Working his way to pay the rent, he delved in odd jobs, carpentry and commercial fishing among others. His main pursuits were photography, surfing and service to the community.
As a volunteer he has made connections with organizations such as Chicamacomico Historical Association, North Carolina Aquariums, National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, UNCW Benthic Lab, North Carolina Sea Grant, North Carolina Coastal Federation and Friends of Hatteras Island.
Michael has been a long-time resident of the tri-village area of Hatteras where he’s operated a home-based photo gallery. Hobbies include surfing and oyster gardening.