Meet Michael James O’Brien | Photographer, writer, teacher, activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael James O’Brien and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael James, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
For 25+ years I have been a free lance photographer & editor-at-large so traveling was key to my practice-both professional & personal. When I travel, I research the location so in spare time I know the best galleries, museums, gyms & restaurants in any location where I land. I have practiced yoga for 30 years & this provides essential balance & resilience. Currently I practice 7 days a week with a yoga master, Jules Thine @yogawithjul

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
For my creative work, i invest time in research & collaboration. I like to think I listen. & that I see.
When I started my photography in NYC after grad school it was a practice not a brand. We talked & met in person
to see things in real time. That is how I still try to work & teach. I read a lot & see films.
Also learning to say ‘no’ to inappropriate requests is a great breakthrough.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
SCAD Museum of Fashion & Film
Jackson Fine Art

+Restaurants
Miller Union
Apres Diem
Lazy Betty
Chirori
Food terminal

Botanical Gardens

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have had a lot of inspiration, activation in my creative life:
+Creative mentor, Walker Evans who was my teacher at Yale in the early 70’s
+Partner Zoltan Gerliczki @zoltangerliczki
+Paula S.Wallace, Founder & President of Savannah College of Art & Design/SCAD where I teach-for creating & maintaining a place of exceptional creative freedom .

Website: www.michaeljamesobrien

Instagram: @michael74obrien

Image Credits
All photographs c.2025michaeljamesobrien