Michael Sutton was born in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1965 where he lived with his mother three older brothers. He’s the son of two interior decorators, and veteran photographer attributes his eye for design and instinct for style to his family upbringing and genetics. During late childhood, Sutton emigrated from the Virgin Islands to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he currently resides.
After being challenged by a friend that he could never make it a career out of photography Sutton set out on a dauntless journey, he went on to study his beloved passion at the Milwaukee Institue of Art and Design, and without formal training he incorporated his knowledge of fashion into photography. This became the turning point for Sutton and his hobby was suddenly launched into a career.
His work got noticed leading to his first position as an Agency Fashion Photographer for Elite Models Men’s Division. he’s been shooting models every since. He loved Greek mythology and Michelangelo’s David. inspired by photographers like Herb Ritts, Bruce Weber, Victor Skrebneski, Rick Day, etc. he’s Self taught. He has 20 plus years of experience in the Midwest & nationwide in photography including: agency model scout, as well as fashion, stills and commercial photography.
The male form work is nationally and internationally recognized. His work has been published three times over in Blue as one of the world’s best for photographing the male form world wide. This lead to his one man showing in NY fashion week, titled “20 Years of Nudes by Michael Sutton.” he’s had the privilege to work with amazing talent like Calvin Klein, Janet Jackson, Jessica Szhor (Gossip Girl), Supermodels, other celebrity clients, and the world’s top modeling agencies.
He have stayed true to his vision of reviving the classic beautiful art of the human form, especially the male form through his camera lens. He continue to create images primarily based out of Milwaukee & Chicago. He’s work out of Minneapolis, AZ, NYC, US Virgin Islands and many more locations for select projects.
Figure In Form is a book that reflects the diversity of the world we live in capturing the beauty, spirit, complexions, and complexities of men. A book of empowerment, exposure, entertainment a response to what we don’t see in our everyday lives… images of Asian, Black, Latino, and White men. My work can be commissioned to any location upon request
