Michael Zhang

Founder, Editor

Michael is a photography enthusiast, entrepreneur, and programmer based in Northern California near San Francisco. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with two degrees in computer science.

Articles by Michael Zhang

A split image: on the left, a black-and-white portrait of a bald man smiling. On the right, four individuals in traditional attire stand on rocks with dramatic mountainous scenery in the background.

The Artistry of Self: The Life and Work of Photographer Jimmy Nelson

English photographer Jimmy Nelson, best known for his portraits of tribal and indigenous peoples, was recently announced as the winner of the $100,000 Special Appreciation Award at HIPA, the world's most lucrative photography competition backed by the crown prince of Dubai. PetaPixel sat down with Nelson to talk about the prize, his life, and his inspiring career.

A man in a suit holds a camera beside a black and white landscape image of wind turbines under a cloudy sky.

The Story Behind the Photo That Won $200,000 at HIPA 2024

HIPA, the world's most lucrative photography competition, announced the winners of this year's Sustainability-themed contest at an awards ceremony in Dubai yesterday. PetaPixel spoke to Chinese photographer Liping Cao, winner of the $200,000 Grand Prize, to learn more about his photo.

Photographer Finds $1,400 Lens for $7 at Thrift Store

One extremely lucky photographer recently experienced the find of a lifetime at his local Goodwill thrift store. While looking through the home entertainment section, he was shocked to find a $1,399 professional camera lens priced at just $6.99.