hi!
My name is Michael Morana, and my passion lies in exploring the intricate techniques that make photography truly captivating. My favorite forms of photography are those that require a unique and challenging blend of technique and equipment. By example - while I enjoy the grandeur of landscape photography, my heart belongs to projects that challenge precision and creativity—like crafting 30-frame mosaic panoramas, each frame, a 5-photo HDR merge, all crafted into a massively detailed, high resolution image rendered from 600 captures. Or the arduous set up required for deep sky night photography.
The particular form highlighted in this gallery is light-painted macro photography, capturing the minute details of natural objects in extraordinary ways. The process begins with selecting a subject on a crisp fall day—a leaf, a seed, or a stone—and transforms into a meticulous dance of technique. Using a specialized macro lens with high magnification, I set up long exposures in minimal ambient light, then delicately "paint" the subject with a color-changing flashlight, ensuring no touch disturbs its natural form.
For me, the joy is in the process, and the magic is in the results. I invite you to explore my gallery and envision how these unique images could bring inspiration to your home, office, or personal collection.
My Story
My journey into photography began two decades ago, when I was around 14 years old. I still remember the excitement of receiving my first camera—a Canon 35mm SLR—as a gift. It was my introduction to a world where creativity meets precision, and it sparked a love that has grown and evolved over the years.
Like many artists, my relationship with photography has seen its ups and downs. There have been lulls when other hobbies captured my attention and bursts of inspiration that pulled me back behind the lens. One of my defining traits is my wide-ranging curiosity—I've always dived headfirst into new interests, hyper-focused and obsessively absorbed until the passion waned, and I moved on. ADHD, anyone? But photography has been the constant. Through all the shifting interests and phases, it has remained a passion—a creative outlet that never loses its appeal.
What makes photography so special to me is its versatility. It allows me to explore and express a limitless range of subjects, from grand landscapes to the tiniest details of natural objects. It’s a dynamic art form that challenges me, fuels my curiosity, and keeps me learning.
As I continue this journey, my goal is to grow not just as a photographer but also as a storyteller who connects with an audience. I want to share my work and see the spark of inspiration in others—those moments when someone sees a photo that resonates with their aesthetic or kindles a sense of wonder.
Photography is a bridge between the world I see and the emotions I hope to evoke. I’m grateful for every opportunity to share my perspective, and I look forward to many more years of growth, creativity, and connection through this art form.