From a camera, to a studio. 

Cultivating the lifestyle of photography, Drew Michael Photos focuses on expressing language through photography, and providing a memory captured in a photo, but a forever experience. 

I fell in love with photography after being inspired by my Grandfather’s many collages of pictures he had taken with the camera he never left home without. In his basement, these framed portraits of friends and family adorned his walls like a museum. I remember always feeling the life from each photo, and the joy it gave my Grandfather to preserve such awesome, and authentic memories. I knew it was a captivating experience for him, and I soon wanted to feel that same magic. 

In 2012, I started taking photos with Proximity Imaging. They were one of the many major photography corporations for nightlife in Chicago, and the surrounding suburbs. My experience with them allowed me to take photos of major events such as the Taste of Chicago, Big Jam concerts, Power Fest, and many others. Not only did I gain crucial experience as a photographer, my love for photography had developed into a passion. I knew it was something I wanted to pursue, and make a career out of.   

I started freelance work taking pictures for proms, birthdays, and weddings. The recognition I received from the responses of people who had experienced the magic of my photography transformed my life. It was the ability to bring people joy, that organically wrapped its arms around my passion, and gave me joy, as well. As I continued down the road to photography, I knew that I wanted to be much more than just a man with a camera. I wanted to be someone who would capture moments, but most importantly, cultivate joy in creating memories. 

Having the passion to do something incredible is one thing, but employing that passion to pursue higher goals is another. In October of 2020, I took that grand leap of faith and purchased my own studio, with my best friend and business partner. In our studio in the west loop of Chicago, I expect a crazy and exciting ride, but a ride nonetheless. 

I aspire to be one of Chicago’s premier photographers. There are many possibilities for creative expression, but how many of them allow you a stage to stop time, and literally grab hold of a moment? I have learned the art of creation, and the purpose behind family, friends, love, and celebration that we experience once every moment…

But I have also learned how to transform those moments into memories. And memories are not only unforgettable--they are forever.