How It Began
My journey into photography started in the shadow of COVID. I spent those years working in hospitals, surrounded by beeping monitors, masked faces, and an overwhelming sense of struggle. Day after day, I saw the toll it took—not just on patients, but on everyone. The weight of it clung to me, and I knew I needed something to balance the scales.
That’s when I picked up a camera and stepped outside. At first, it was just a way to escape—an excuse to wander trails, watch the sunrise, and feel the earth under my feet. But the more I explored, the more I saw: the delicate veins of a leaf, the piercing eyes of an owl, the way stars seemed to pulse with life. I started snapping photos to hold onto those moments, and soon, I couldn’t stop. What began as a lifeline became a passion—a calling to capture the world’s wonders and bring them to others who might need that same spark of hope.
"The Earth has music for those who listen." — George Santayana
Climb up on some hill at sunrise. Everybody needs perspective once in a while, and you’ll find it there.
— Robb Sagendorph
A little about me
I. I’m Michael
I was born and raised in the American Southwest, with its beautiful forests, mountains, and deserts becoming my own personal backyard.
II. Relationship with nature
I lived in northern Arizona which brought new light to the amazing state. The polar opposite of the vast majority of the desert state.
III. Photography
If nature is my first true love, photography became my second one. It started with just wanting to take pictures of sunsets, friends while camping, and mountains, but I was instantly drawn to it.
FAQ
What types of photography services do you offer?
My work focuses on three areas:
- Nature: Landscapes, plants, and scenic beauty—think mountains, forests, and sunsets.
- Wildlife: Animals in their natural habitats, from birds in flight to mammals in the wild.
- Astro: Night sky photography, including stars, galaxies, and cosmic events.
- Each piece reflects my passion for showcasing the world’s wonders. Explore my Portfolio to see examples!
How do I book a photography session with your team?
Can we choose the location for our photo shoot?
How long does a typical photo session last?
How long does it take to receive the final edited photos?
What happens if the weather is unfavorable on the day of an outdoor shoot?
LET’S CONNECT AND GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER BETTER
Let’s set out on an adventure together
I’d love for you to join me on this journey. Explore my portfolio, grab a print that speaks to you, or drop me a line to say hello. Together, we can keep finding the beauty beyond the chaos.