Why I Primarily Photograph Men
- Michael Cannon
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
(But Yes, You're Totally Welcome Too)
Let me just say this up front. I photograph men, primarily. Not only. This isn’t some exclusive man cave situation where you need a beard and a flannel shirt to enter. If you vibe with my style and the work speaks to you, you’re in the right place. No secret handshake required.
But yes, when people ask what kind of photography I do, I usually say, “I'm a men's portrait photographer and help them see themselves as the beautiful works of art they are.”
And here’s why.
Every man brings something different to the session. Strength, vulnerability, and everything in between.
Most Men Don't Get the Camera-Turned-on-Them Moment
Let’s be honest. A lot of men spend most of their lives behind the camera. Taking photos of their kids, their partner, the dog doing something cute (which is 100% valid. My camera roll is full of my dog sleeping). Rarely are they the focus. And when they are, it’s usually a passport photo or a company headshot from 10 years ago. You know the one.
I love changing that. I love showing men what it looks like when someone takes the time to light them well, pose them right, and pull out the expression that actually feels like them.

It’s Not Just About Looking Good. It’s About Feeling Seen
Let’s take the whole “good side” conversation and throw it out the window. The goal isn’t just to make you look sharp (though, spoiler: you will). The goal is for you to see yourself in a new way. Confident. Calm. Powerful. Thoughtful. Whatever it is you bring into the world, that’s what I want to capture.
Most of the men I photograph say something like, “I didn’t think I’d enjoy this,” or, “I never thought I’d like a photo of myself this much.”
Mission accomplished.
"I feel so valid and seen." The entire experience was a blessing, and looking at these images is greatly contributing to the process of me becoming comfortable in my own skin. I feel so valid and seen. — James G., Portrait Client
What It’s Like to Work with Me
99% of my clients aren't models. They’re regular guys who want to look like the best version of themselves without feeling awkward.
That’s why I guide you through the whole process. I’ll tell you where to put your hands, how to stand, and when your expression hits that magic mix of strong and relaxed. I don’t expect you to know what you’re doing. That’s my job. And honestly, I love that part.
Whether you’re booking for yourself or someone else is gifting it to you, I make sure the experience feels easy, comfortable, and, dare I say it, even enjoyable.
Men Deserve Art Too
We’re used to seeing beautiful portraits of women. And they’re stunning. But men? Often it’s a phone selfie at best holding up a fish. An outdated headshot for LinkedIn. Maybe a wedding photo from 2009.
But your life is just as full. Your story matters. Your face, your energy, your growth. It’s all worth documenting.
A great portrait isn’t vanity. It’s legacy.
Albums, folios, and handcrafted wall portraits designed to help you see yourself and share your story for years to come.
What Makes These Portraits Different
You’re not getting a quick photo and a thumbs-up. This is a full experience designed to make you feel proud, seen, and maybe even a little surprised at how damn good you look.
I get it, being photographed can feel vulnerable, especially if it' not something you're used to. I’ll walk you through everything. Wardrobe choices. Prepping your skin (yes, we talk self-care). How to stand. What to do with your hands. How to breathe. It’s tailored to you from start to finish.
What sets this apart is what you leave with. These portraits are meant to live in your home as handcrafted wall art you walk past every day, or in an album you can pull off the shelf and relive whenever you want. They’re designed to be experienced, not tucked away. You’ll leave with a collection of artwork that reflects your journey and that you're proud to show family and friends.
So Yes, I Photograph Men. But Here's the Bigger Picture
I photograph men because I saw a gap and knew I could fill it with something meaningful. But my camera doesn’t come with rules. If you connect with my work, I’d be honored to work with you.
Photography, for me, is about connection and presence. So whoever you are, if you’re drawn to that feeling, you’re welcome here.

Ready to See Yourself Differently?
If this sounds like the kind of portrait experience you’ve been missing, let’s talk. I promise the lighting will be better than your passport photo. Probably.