Mike Kelley is an award-winning photographer based in Los Angeles, California, renowned for his captivating images of architecture and his undeniable passion for aviation. Born and raised in Ipswich, Massachusetts, a coastal enclave brimming with picturesque charm and cinematic allure, Mike's formative years were enriched by encounters with inspiring mentors who ignited his fascination with art and design, setting him on a transformative path.
After pursuing studies in studio art and environmental science at the University of Vermont, Mike ventured westward to Lake Tahoe, California, harboring dreams of carving a career as a professional snowboarder—an aspiration tempered by the economic downturn of the '08 recession. Undeterred by setbacks and fueled by an unwavering spirit of adventure, he eventually found himself drawn to the luminous skies of Los Angeles, where he embarked on a new chapter as a photographer.
With an innate knack for capturing the sublime beauty of flight, Mike's portfolio has become synonymous with his "Airportraits" series, masterful compositions that encapsulate the bustling rhythm of a day's worth of aircraft movements in singular, breathtaking images. His prowess in aerial photography has garnered widespread acclaim, earning him a dedicated following among aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
In addition to his aerial endeavors, Mike has delved into the realm of architectural photography with unparalleled skill, capturing the essence of iconic structures and urban landscapes with a keen eye for detail and composition. His boundless creativity has culminated in the publication of "LA Airspace," a lavish coffee table book that showcases the dynamic interplay between the city's skyline and its bustling aviation industry.
Mike's work has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as National Geographic, The Wall Street Journal, BBC, CNN, and WIRED, among others, cementing his status as a luminary in the world of photography. With each new project, he continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the marvels of the built environment and the boundless possibilities of flight.
