Conversations with Michael Boyes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Boyes.  

Hi Michael, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello! My name is Michael Boyes and I’m a West Michigan nature photographer with a passion for landscapes and wildlife. I’ve enjoyed photography for most of my life and started out shooting 35mm as a kid. Being inspired by looking through National Geographic magazines every month to marvel at the beautiful photographs. This world has so much beauty and wonders to explore. 

In 2017 I decided I would revisit my relationship with photography and purchased my first DSLR. The first time I went out it was like I reconnected with an old friend. I was working 50–70-hour work weeks at the time and it wasn’t until the summer of 2020 when I finally went on my first photography trip. I have since traveled across the state photographing wildlife and landscapes. Since 2020 I’ve been to all of the state parks except a few I should have checked off by the end of July. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Oh my. The struggles of being a landscape photographer in the time of social media. Every single thing about it is a struggle for the most part lol. To throw something you spent so much time and energy on into an algorithm and hope that someone who likes it might follow you along on the journey is a strange way to advertise yourself. You have to pay for ads these days just so all the people who follow you will actually see when you post a photo. 

Pertaining to photography I’ve experienced self-doubt and burnout from physically and mentally over-exerting myself. Artists can be their own harshest critics, and I’m no different. It can be tough at times but the pure joy you experience with capturing a beautiful subject or environment really does make it all worth it. It’s a wonderful feeling I haven’t been able to replicate with any other art form. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
A landscape photographer with an interest in birds. I wouldn’t say I’m different from any other photographer who puts in the time and makes sacrifices to pursue this profession. Photographs change day by day and everyone has a way they see the world, and that will change and evolve with time. I’m simply documenting how I see what’s around me during my time in this life. I aspire to learn from others and do my best to teach anyone that looks to me for guidance. There’s a hidden beauty in photography. You’ll never see it all, and because of this, you’ll never stop learning and having new experiences. 

What makes you happy?
The details of fleeting experiences. The way the sun shines and moves through your surroundings. Hearing an owl’s call. The little things. We only have so much time on this planet and I try to keep my tunnel vision in check. 

Socially I find joy in a wonderful collective of friends who are also musicians. I’ve been performing for 20 years and if anyone is interested, they can see more at gtgrecords.net 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.michaelboyesphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelboyesphotography/

Image Credits
Michael Boyes Photography