Meet Michael Cannon | Men’s Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Cannon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I studied photography in college with plans to become an art teacher, but by senior year I realized I didn’t want to be in a traditional classroom. I wanted creative freedom. Like many photographers, I started out doing weddings because it felt like the default path. But it didn’t bring me joy. I discovered that working in the studio, shaping light and setting a scene, was what really lit me up.

Later, I started noticing how much energy was being poured into transformative portrait experiences for women. There were makeup artists, wardrobe consultations, and a whole process designed to make them feel incredible. But almost no one was offering that kind of care and creativity for men. That’s when I shifted my focus. I wanted to create a space where men could feel seen, empowered, and confident. That shift is what gave my business purpose, and it’s been incredibly rewarding.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets my work apart is the intentional focus on men’s portraiture. A lot of photographers offer transformative experiences for women with wardrobe styling, makeup, and full sessions designed to make them feel amazing. I started to wonder why guys weren’t getting the same treatment. I wanted to create that space where men could feel confident, seen, and beautiful.

I’m all about helping them see themselves as the works of art they are. Sometimes that means leaning into the rugged, bold energy. Other times it’s quiet, thoughtful, and soft. Every person is different, and I love capturing every side.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I started out shooting weddings thinking that was the natural path. It took time and a lot of trial and error to realize that what I loved most was studio work. Playing with light, creating intentional portraits, and helping people see themselves in a new way. Once I leaned into that, things really started to click. It then become more about finding my style.

Quick side story… Years ago, I was taking self-portraits and experimenting with lighting. When I checked the camera, I broke down in tears because I finally saw the look and style I had been searching for. That moment changed everything. I realized this was the kind of work I wanted to create, not just for myself, but for others too.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to trust my instincts and not be afraid to pivot. It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing, but real growth came when I gave myself permission to build something that felt aligned with me.

What I want people to know is that this is more than just a photoshoot. It’s an experience that leaves you feeling uplifted, encouraged, and more connected with who you are. For me, the work isn’t complete until the images are printed. I specialize in wall art and albums because there is something truly incredible about holding your portrait in your hands or seeing it displayed on your wall. It becomes a lasting reminder of the moment you truly embraced and showed up for yourself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The cool thing is, my best friend actually lives here, so we’ve already done a lot of exploring, but if we were setting aside a full week to hang out like tourists in our own city, it’d be packed with good food, beach days, and a little adventure.

We’d start with a hike probably around Griffith or near Pasadena then grab lunch at Alta West Adamns, Highly Likely or Menya Hanabi, depending on the vibe and how hungry we are. And we’re definitely swinging by Sweet Red Peach for dessert at least twice. That’s non-negotiable.

There’d be multiple beach days. One day we’d do something adventourous like jet skiing or a Ryker rental just to mix it up. I’d want to squeeze in some art too, so we’d check out LACMA and The Broad.

It would be a week of sunshine and a whole lot of eating.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely. I owe a lot to the photographers who encouraged me early on, took the time to train me, and even offered up their studio space so I could create and explore. That kind of support made a huge difference, especially when I was just starting out and figuring out my own style. Thank you Annie and Nancy.

And a special shoutout to my dad. He was a wedding photographer before I was born, and that’s really how I got into photography in the first place. He passed the creative spark on to me, and I’ve been carrying it forward ever since.

Website: https://michaelecannon.com

Instagram: @michaelcannonphotography

Facebook: @michaelcannonphotography

Image Credits
Michael Cannon