Tom Riley’s Lens Captures Cape Cod’s Character

 Tom Riley is an award-winning photographer based in Chatham. Since the pandemic, he has successfully nurtured his passions — real estate and photography — by sharing his love for Cape Cod's landscapes on social media. Recently, he has expanded his reach by showcasing his work on his own website. Riley discusses when his passion for photography began and what he enjoys most as a Cape Codder.

Q: How did you get started in photography, and what has been your path to becoming an award-winning photographer?

A: My love for photography began early in life. The idea of capturing moments and reliving them later always excited me. My first camera was a Canon Powershot A430, which I started using around age 5. I still cherish my early photos. Initially, I focused on capturing family moments, but my interest in photography expanded to include Cape Cod’s landscapes and unique character over time.

It wasn't until the pandemic in 2020 that I began sharing my work publicly. Spending more time on Cape Cod allowed me to appreciate its beauty even more, and I started posting photos on Instagram. This platform enabled me to connect with thousands of people, many of whom call Cape Cod home or frequently visit.

My work has been showcased in various magazines, but the most significant recognition came when I was chosen as the grand prize winner for Cape Cod Life Magazine's 2024 photo contest. My photograph of an antique Scout car cruising through the Nauset Beach Dunes won the prize and was featured on the cover of nearly 200,000 magazines. This achievement validated my passion for photography and strengthened my connection to the Cape Cod community. 

Q: What was your childhood like spending summers on Cape Cod?

A: Growing up, my summers on Cape Cod were filled with cherished memories. I spent countless days at my grandparents' home in Dennis and enjoyed staying at the Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham. As early as I remember, Cape Cod felt like a second home. I loved waking up early to spend hours at the beach with my family — swimming, building sandcastles, and playing games. Beyond the beach, I enjoyed biking, shopping, minigolf, cookouts, and much more. Cape Cod has a unique way of bringing people together; I noticed this when I was young. When the opportunity arose to live here full-time, I embraced it wholeheartedly.

Q: What are some of your favorite places on Cape Cod?

A: I'll highlight three of my favorites. First, Chatham's Main Street is a vibrant hub with unique shops, delightful restaurants, and a lively year-round atmosphere. I also have some of my framed photo prints for sale at The Mayflower Shop, which makes visiting Main Street even more special. Second, the dune shack trail in Provincetown offers a surreal experience, walking over a mile through untouched dunes that feel almost otherworldly. Lastly, the Brewster tidal flats are astonishingly vast and hold a special place in my heart, particularly during the off-season when I can let my dog play freely and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. 

Q: Are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you're excited about?

A: I am always working on new projects. Currently, I'm developing a series of quick social media videos showcasing homes for sale on Cape Cod, which has already shown great promise. Launching my own website to sell prints and share blog posts is also something I’m working on right now. Additionally, I'm in the early stages of working on a book that will blend my love for Cape Cod photography, its people, and history. More details on the book will be shared as work progresses! Lastly, I've begun helping others with photo projects, whether it be drone photos for weddings, proposal photo shoots, or even boat photos; I'm happy to help.

Q: What inspires you in your photography?

A: Photography allows me to capture and share the beauty and uniqueness of the world around me. Living in a place as picturesque as Cape Cod, I'm constantly inspired by its stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and ever-changing light. Photography gives me the opportunity to explore these elements and tell visual stories that resonate with both locals and visitors.

Moreover, photography challenges me to see the world from different perspectives, encouraging creativity and continuous learning. It pushes me to experiment with new techniques and styles, broadening my skills and enhancing my artistic expression. This creative exploration fuels my passion and allows me to capture moments that might otherwise go unnoticed, revealing the extraordinary within the ordinary. Ultimately, photography inspires me to connect with people and places on a deeper level, allowing me to share unique stories and evoke emotions through my images.

Q: How can people support your career in photography?

A: I love connecting with people on Instagram through my account @tomriley, where I share a new photo almost every day and enjoy engaging in conversations about Cape Cod. My inbox is always open for people seeking recommendations or needing answers to any other inquiries. Additionally, my framed photos are available for purchase at The Mayflower Shop on Main Street in Chatham, and my personal website, tomscapecod.com, features a print shop.