Geographer | Photographer | Gentleman Explorer

Ian M. Tobin is a geographer and urban planner by trade, but when the workday ends, he is a man on a mission to explore the world. Armed with a B.A. in Geography from DePaul University and a Master’s in Urban Planning from the University of Illinois-Chicago, Ian spends his days shaping the future of Chicago’s neighborhoods. But it’s not the spreadsheets or the land use plans that ignite his true passion. It’s the world beyond.

When the sun sets, Ian picks up his camera, embracing the adventure of capturing the soul of a city. His photographs aren’t just snapshots—they’re stories, peeled back layer by layer, revealing the hidden nuances of culture, architecture, and history that most people overlook. He’s not here to simply wander—he’s here to understand, to dive deep into the unseen corners, and to document the unique character of every place he encounters.

A life of refinement, adventure, and curiosity drives Ian. From his early love of men’s fashion and spy films to his curiosity of wine and cinema, he seeks a touch of elegance to every journey no matter how big or small. This website is where his exploration comes to life through essays, short stories, and photographs guided by the spirit of adventure and the poise of a man always dressed for the occasion.