Michael Steineke has been photographing aviation for almost four decades, combining a lifelong passion for flight with a dedication to visual storytelling. A professional aviation photographer since 1990, he spent seven years as a staff photographer for the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and served as Chairman of the EAA AirVenture Volunteer Photography Team through 2016.
Capturing Motion, Technology & Adventure
While best known for his aviation imagery, Michael's work extends far beyond the flight line. His portfolio includes Formula 1, IndyCar, and grassroots motorsports, as well as underwater photography that captures the beauty and diversity of the aquatic world. He has also photographed Space Shuttle missions, rocket launches, and other milestones in aerospace history. Whether photographing aircraft, race cars, rockets, or marine life, he is drawn to environments that combine motion, precision, technology, and adventure.
Engineering the Perfect Perspective
Equally passionate about the technical side of photography, Michael designs and deploys advanced remote camera systems that place viewers in positions impossible to achieve with traditional photography. From airshows and race tracks to launch pads, his expertise in both technology and imaging allows him to create unique perspectives that bring audiences closer to the action.
Published Around the World
His work has been published internationally and featured on hundreds of magazine covers, capturing everything from historic warbirds and aerobatic performances to world-class motorsports competition, and spaceflight. Michael continues to support the aviation community as a volunteer with the EAA Communications Center and AirVenture Photo Team. Based in Wisconsin, he remains committed to preserving extraordinary moments and sharing the excitement of flight, speed, exploration, and discovery through photography.
