Learning Center
Michael Campbell: An exceptional photographer who uses Tamron lenses to capture extraordinary images
by Jason Schneider
Images by Michael Campbell
Campbell Website
Michael Campbell is a master photographer of the first rank who has worked, studied, and hobnobbed with some of photography’s all-time greats. He is also a fascinating and multi-talented individual with a background and knowledge base so remarkably diverse that his astounding photographic versatility is the inevitable consequence of who he is, namely a 21st century renaissance man.
Born in the UK, Campbell studied physics, math, and chemistry at a top private school, worked at the Kodak Research Lab, earned a Masters in Geology at Leicester University, and, from 1968-1972, was a graduate lecturer in photographic technology at the renowned Kodak Photographic School in Harrow. In 1973, he shot his first portrait, a compelling image of former British Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden that Eden used for his best-selling book, A New World.
In 1979 Campbell came to the USA to work with the world-renowned photographic artist and teacher Paul Caponigro on Caponigro’s acclaimed book, The Megaliths, which included iconic images of Stonehenge and other European stone circles, then traveled to California where he stayed with Ansel Adams. As a result of this inspirational visit, Campbell wrote a major article on Adams, and later another piece on the American photographic master, Brett Weston, for the influential British Journal of Photography. What followed were stints as a portrait photographer, university professor of photography, and manager of a major portrait studio. All during this time Campbell was continually creating outstanding and profound images in genres ranging from portraiture, fine art photography, advertising, sports, landscapes, and equestrian photography.
Of course, Campbell’s timeless and poignant images have an iconic quality and an identifiable style that are impossible to capture in words, but are evident when you see them for yourself here. Indeed, scores of photographic critics including the late great photographic guru Monte Zucker have heaped praise on Campbell’s work. To quote Zucker, “His images transcend time. His style is so unique; one feels exhilaration from peering into his mind’s eye. I urge everyone to enjoy his extreme talent.”
For the record, Michael Campbell is self-taught as a photographer, Photoshop expert, and as an accomplished painter. He was the UK record holder in the high jump during the ‘60s and ‘70s, and is currently a part-time high school track and field coach. A single dad, he lives with his 15-year-old son in Scripps Ranch near San Diego. As we said, he’s not only a great photographer and a Tamron fan, but a true renaissance man.