Michael McGraw

Background

Primarily self taught, I began shooting weddings in 1997 as a way to fund my personal projects. Back then, I loved old buildings and bright colors. As a wedding photographer, I loved being able to float around the edges of the event and find the little shots that would otherwise go unnoticed. In 2003, I won a “Best Photographer” award in the Minnesota Bride Readers Poll.

My photography changed completely a few years ago when I began shooting digitally. With no on-going film and print costs, I was free to experiment with my images and take control of how my photos looked without relying on the interpretation of my vision by the staff at my local lab.

Currently, I am working on a study of the Mississippi River documenting how the water changes in quality and character from day to day. By photographing the water without showing the shore or skyline, I create abstract images which reveal the variety to be found in the water itself.

I continue to work in portraiture, weddings, and product photography, as well as photographing the MN Rollergirls at their bouts. I still love the old buildings and have become fond of muted colors. I pick up my camera every day and am always surprised by what subjects present themselves.