Michael Nelson Studio

While some people plan on being a photographer, others are just destined to become one. Knowing early that he couldn't sit still at a desk long enough to work a typical corporate job, Michael became a firefighter/EMT. As the lieutenant in charge, he learned to make life and death decisions in an instant when he arrived at a scene. Maturity, responsibility, and quick thinking are not optional in such a position.(He considers them just as vital on the photo set when the client is counting on him to come through.) Besides fighting fires, he experienced the joy of having babies born into his arms when they couldn't wait for the hospital. In contrast, those same arms too often held another as they took their last breath. With intimate knowledge of the truly thin line between life and death, Michael takes nothing for granted – any moment not lived fully and creatively is a moment wasted. Michael's understanding of lighting goes beyond the technical formulas emphasized in school. He has set new standards in lighting by using his intuition, experience and curiosity. He doesn't work for the light, he makes it work for him. That's one reason he has been successful in assignments other photographers said couldn't be done. His theory is, if the client needs it, my job is to figure out how to do it. Michael has spent the past few years refining his vision, focusing on a celebration of femininity, grace, sensuality and joy. This new work is intimate, romantic and painterly, combining his unique understanding of light with his enigmatic view of the world. Michael’s only fear is mediocrity, and his approach to life and work is the same — full of humor, spontaneity, and a lot of passion.