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The Rocky Mountain Collegian

The Student News Site of Colorado State University

The Rocky Mountain Collegian

The Student News Site of Colorado State University

The Rocky Mountain Collegian

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Meet the Photographer: Michael Marquardt

man poses
Michael Marquardt poses for a picture. (Vicki Marquardt | The Collegian)

Michael Marquardt is a sophomore studying mechanical engineering at Colorado State University. Michael has been interested in photography his whole life, as one of his favorite childhood toys was a plastic film camera.

Michael’s interest in photography was only furthered when his dad bought a digital camera and Michael said, “I took more of an interest in it than he did!”

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Michael’s first major step in his journey came in high school when he took a photography class learning manual and film photography, centered around assignments much like how The Collegian operates. Michael said that a milestone in his career came when he won a contest with over 300 entrants, had photos exhibited at the National Center for Atmospheric Research and Dairy Arts Center and even gave a local radio station interview. These milestones throughout his lifelong career “only added to the inspiration to continue to improve.” 

Michael’s favorite picture came from a trip to Moab and Canyonlands National Park last year. Michael loves this picture of Mesa Arch because he woke up at 4 a.m. to get through the hike and secure a spot to beat the crowd of photographers.  

sunrise at arch
Sunrise at Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park March 16, 2020. (Michael Marquardt | The Collegian)
sunrise
Sunrise at Horsetooth Reservoir Jan. 23. (Michael Marquardt | The Collegian)
city skyline
The Denver skyline at sunset Jan. 4, 2020. (Michael Marquardt | The Collegian)
cat looks
A cat sits in front of Christmas lights Dec. 7, 2018. (Michael Marquardt | The Collegian)

Luke Bourland can be reached at photo@collegian.com.

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About the Contributor
Luke Bourland
Luke Bourland, Photo Director
Luke Bourland is a history major from Durham, Connecticut. Bourland is studying history in hopes of going to law school in the fall 2022 semester after graduation. In terms of which law school Bourland wants to go to, he likes to joke, "I will attend anywhere that'll have me!" Bourland has been taking pictures recreationally for most of his life but did not officially join The Collegian until the beginning of his sophomore year in 2019. Bourland originally joined The Collegian to develop his skills and to photograph out of his comfort zone. During his time at The Collegian, Bourland has held positions such as freelance photographer, media archivist, assistant photo editor, photo editor and finally, photo director. As the photo director, it is Bourland's job to make sure the paper is accompanied with beautiful pictures alongside the photo editor. Bourland has photographed events ranging from speeches and galas to football and basketball games. In his free time, Bourland is an avid golfer, fly-fisherman and still loves to take pictures recreationally. Differing from the style of photography at The Collegian, Bourland enjoys slowing down and shooting landscapes and portraits on film. Bourland first learned how to develop film with a friend in the bathrooms of Corbett Hall, stuffing towels under the doors to avoid any light leaking in. No matter where life takes Bourland, he hopes that photography will always be there along the ride.  

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