DAFVM Spotlight Employee: Tom Thompson
Tom Thompson
Photographic Coordinator
College of Veterinary Medicine
Time at MSU/in position: 30 years
Among the world-class researchers and cream of the crop students at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University is a person who is responsible for capturing it all on camera. For the past 30 years, Tom Thompson has documented research, clinical procedures, surgeries and thousands of faculty, staff, students and animals through his photography.
“The diversity of photography needs -- people and animals -- it keeps everything interesting and sharpens my skill,” Thompson said.
Thompson fell in love with photography after his parents gifted him a 35mm camera as a high school graduation gift; however, his career in medical photography began unexpectedly. He stumbled upon the field by chance and realized there was a demand for his specialized skills.
"It kind of chose me," Thompson explained.
Before his career at MSU, Thompson worked as a medical photographer for five years at the Texas Heart Institute in Houston. Wanting to raise his family in a smaller town, he found his home in Starkville.
Throughout his career, Thompson has photographed a wide range of fascinating animals, from reptiles like pythons and iguanas to large mammals such as tigers, lions, and even dolphins. One standout experience involved photographing a rare white 22-point buck, whose condition caused its antlers to grow unusually.
A highlight for Thompson has been sharing his unique experiences with his family.
“Some of my fondest memories are giving my children tours of CVM during their childhood; all of them experienced CVM’s Open House at some point,” Thompson said. “I remember the excitement on their faces when they saw, held, or petted some of the unusual animals, and my children all still talk about the baby bobcat visit. Now, I have the pleasure of giving my grandkids tours and taking them to Open House.”
Even outside of work, Thompson’s passion for photography remains strong, as he continues to explore, hike, and capture wildlife through his lens.
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