MICHAEL
PHOTOGRAPHER.
CINEMATOGRAPHER.
Storyteller.
Michael is a Bay Area–based creative who specializes in producing cinematic imagery for brands and private clients. He captures the world with wide-eyed passion and a relentless attention to detail, producing work that’s both technically precise and emotionally rich.
Since childhood, he’s seen life like a movie unfolding around him — instinctively framing moments, light, and space. His work reflects that perspective, capturing not just what’s in front of the lens, but also the energy and atmosphere that surround it.
After studying photography at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, near his hometown in Metro Detroit, a photo trip to San Francisco inspired Michael’s cross-country move to the Bay Area. That move marked the beginning of a career that has included campaigns for clients such as Jeep, Google, Shell, Polestar, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Nikon, Omega, and Ram Trucks.
Over the years, Michael has cultivated a loyal audience of more than 100,000 Instagram followers drawn to his cinematic style and honest storytelling. His work has been featured in publications including San Francisco Magazine, Marin Living, Forbes, Crain’s Detroit, and 7x7. He is also the co-founder of Explorest — a Google Play Best Apps Award winner that helps users discover and photograph picturesque locations around the world. Michael has shared his creative insights as a speaker at events like SXSW and as a guest lecturer at UC Berkeley.
When not behind the camera, he takes pride in being a devoted husband, father, and dog dad. He's also a wellness enthusiast, sci-fi and superhero nerd, unhinged sports fan, avid foodie, and an audiophile with a well-worn turntable.
Contact
michael@michaellax.com
248.939.2780
Clients
