Michael Ballard has been a force in photography, music, art, and skateboarding, and had a hand
in guiding and shaping the cultures during their most influential periods.
Working continuously in media since his first photos were published in the 1980s, Michael’s
early images attracted the attention of editors from Poweredge, Skateboarder, Big Brother, and
Transworld Skateboarding. Developing his talents alongside fellow skate photographer Spike
Jonze, Michael’s keen eye and work ethic kept him busy, and he quickly found himself directing
iconic skateboard videos like Rolling Thunder for Foundation Skateboards. (Michael would later
reunite with Spike Jonze when he became part of the production team at MTV’s Jackass.) As
DC Shoes rose to prominence, Michael was brought in as photo director of skateboarding’s
preeminent brand at the time.
After a period as a director of photography for Time-Warner Publications, and through work with
The Robb Report, Michael rediscovered his passion for cars, and co-founded the ID Agency,
catering to luxury automotive brands with original marketing and advertising campaigns focused
on engaging their high-end audiences.
More recently, he has been working on short films featuring Billie Eilish, Margot Robbie, Robert
Downey Jr, Natalie Portman, Bradly Cooper, and countless other A-listers.
Over the years, Michael’s skill set, professionalism, and enthusiasm have continuously attracted
clients and earned him countless credits, including:
• Billboard Magazine
• The Hollywood Reporter
• Adidas
• Sony Cinema
• The Robb Report
• Big Brother Magazine
• Jackass
• Footlocker
• Playboy Magazine
• Skateboarder Magazine
• DC Shoe Co
• Sundance+.