I specialize in nature, fine art and location/lifestyle portrait photography.  I value the diversity in nature, seeing the patterns and textures in the chaos of nature, and observing interplay of wildlife.  My photographs reflect my personal view of our natural world, a personal view that transitions to my portraits by photographing people in their intimate surroundings where they are most comfortable.

I sell my photographs at juried art shows in Western and Central New York State and northwestern Pennsylvania, at the Cattaraugus County Arts Council Art on Main Gallery, on my website, and now at the AmeriCan store in Ellicottville.  My photographs have appeared on calendars, company and real estate websites, and in a travel brochure.

My photographs have been exhibited in the Quick Center for the Arts at St. Bonaventure University, the Center Gallery at Jamestown Community College, the Cattaraugus County Arts Council Gallery (solo show), the Surroundings Gallery in Westfield, Glass Arts Gallery in Mayville and at several businesses.

Additionally, I have performed product photography for local businesses and recently started architectural/ real estate photography.

I enjoy sharing my interest and knowledge by presenting photography slide shows and instructional programs, including a highschool adult education program “Digital Photography for Everyone”, “Comparison and Use of Photo Editing Software for Jamestown Audubon”, “Photographing Your Crafts” for the Native Roots Art Guild, “Taking Better Vacation Photos” at Allegany State Park and previously presented a course in “Demistifying Digital Photography” through the Cattaraugus County Arts Council, and programs to other interested organizations.

I became interested in photography during high school, serving as the photographer for the school newspaper and developed that interest after military service through a correspondence course.   I established Images by Michael, my home-based photography business in 1996 and continue developing my skills through workshops, seminars, publications and my association with other professionals.  At the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, I volunteer as a photo archivist.