About Ratman Media
Hey there, I’m Mike, the guy behind Ratman Media. I’ve worked in the firearms and outdoors industries for over 5 years as a marketer with The Coutts Agency, but I’ve been running a camera for as long as I can remember.
I first picked up a camera chasing sunsets and wildlife. Those early days outdoors taught me patience and gave me an eye for detail that carried over into product photography. Now, I put that same eye to work for brands, but I’ll never stop pointing the lens at wildlife when I get the chance.
After reviewing my portfolio, people are often surprised to learn I’m colorblind. It doesn’t affect my photography the way many would assume. I’ve also chosen equipment that works with me, which is why I shoot Nikon and rely on its neutral RAW color profile for consistency.
My Approach to Photography
Many photographers chase a signature look, and there’s nothing wrong with that. My approach is a little different, maybe because I started with nature photography and later got into product photography.
Instead of forcing a style onto each project, I let the product and setting determine how the finished photo looks. Sometimes that means a warmer, vintage treatment with more character. Other times, the scene may call for black & white to set a serious tone. And in many cases, brands simply need crisp detail that highlights the craftsmanship behind their work.
Regardless, the goal remains the same: to create photos that I’d want to receive if I were on the marketing side. Images that not only look good, but strengthen your marketing campaigns and give your brand content it can actually use.
My Approach to Photography
Many photographers chase a signature look, and there’s nothing wrong with that. My approach is a little different, maybe because I started with nature photography and later got into product photography.
Instead of forcing a style onto each project, I let the product and setting determine how the finished photo looks. Sometimes that means a warmer, vintage treatment with more character. Other times, the scene may call for black & white to set a serious tone. And in many cases, brands simply need crisp detail that highlights the craftsmanship behind their work.
Regardless, the goal remains the same: to create photos that I’d want to receive if I were on the marketing side. Images that not only look good, but strengthen your marketing campaigns and give your brand content it can actually use.
What does Ratman carry?
I’m not a fan of “carry rotations” and prefer to stick with the same loadout year-round. After plenty of trial and error, and a little help from Langdon milling HKs, I’ve built a foundation that works for me. The next step is adding medical gear, because being prepared should mean more than just being able to poke holes.
Here’s my current everyday carry:
Name Origin
If you came here expecting an epic origin story, get ready to be let down!
The story of “Ratman” comes from a family tradition of our last name being butchered. During my Dad’s time in the NAVY he was dubbed “Ratman”, I imagine so people could avoid trying to pronounce his actual name.
As fate would have it, I’ve lived through the same struggles. So, naturally, I decided to exercise some piracy skills, and commandeered the nickname from him. Thus, Ratman was reborn… so I guess I’m Ratman Junior… technically?
My Other Photography
When I’m not shooting products, I’m usually out on a trail somewhere with a camera in hand. Hiking gives me the chance to slow down, clear my head, and capture the kind of photos that got me started in photography in the first place. Becoming a full-time landscape and nature photographer is still on the bucket list.
If you want to see more of that side of my work, follow along on Facebook or Instagram. Worst case, your feed gets a little change of scenery.