Michael Lichter
Michael Lichter: Capturing the Spirit of the Open Road
When you think of passion, one name that immediately comes to mind in the world of motorcycle photography is Michael Lichter. For over two decades, Lichter has devoted his life to capturing the essence of motorcycling, riding, and the biker lifestyle through his lens. His photographs tell stories, evoke emotions, and celebrate a culture that thrives on freedom and adventure.
A Journey Begins
Michael’s journey into photography began in 1968, but it wasn’t until 1976, during a ride on a friend’s Knucklehead chopper, that he discovered his true love for motorcycles. This experience ignited a fire within him, leading him to purchase his own bike—a 1971 Shovelhead—in 1977. Michael’s bond with this machine has endured the test of time, as he continues to ride it to this day.
Merging Passions
The late 1970s marked a significant turning point in Michael’s life, as he found a way to blend his passions for photography and motorcycling. In 1979, he began submitting his first photos to Easyriders Magazine, often capturing the spirit of the biker community while riding his trusted Shovelhead. It was a perfect synergy: the thrill of the ride and the joy of freezing those moments in time through photography.
A Legacy of Photography
To date, Michael Lichter’s work has been featured in over 800 magazine articles and has graced approximately 60 magazine covers. His portfolio is a vivid tapestry of the motorcycle culture, showcasing everything from the raw power of custom bikes to the camaraderie of fellow riders. Among the highlights of his career is his long-standing tradition of photographing the Sturgis Rally, a personal favorite of his, which he has covered since 1979.
Chronicling Change
Through his lens, Michael has witnessed the evolution of the Sturgis Rally and the broader biker lifestyle over the decades. "After more than 20 years of participating and photographing the rally, I have seen it change just as I have seen myself change," he reflected during his induction interview in 2005. "We were both naïve and a little less worldly. The town outgrew its geographical boundaries years ago, so that it is no longer a town; it is a phenomenon. It is a feeling inside."
The Spirit of Motorcycling
For Michael, Sturgis represents much more than a destination; it embodies the journey of motorcycling itself. His photographs reflect the spirit of the open road, the thrill of freedom, and the deep connections formed among riders. "It stands for all that motorcycling is, for all that motorcycling can be," he explains, capturing the heart of a community that thrives on shared experiences and adventures.
Inspiring Future Generations
As Michael continues to ride and photograph, he not only preserves the history of the biker culture but also inspires future generations of riders and photographers. His passion for living, riding, and capturing the essence of the motorcycle community serves as a reminder of the beauty and freedom found on two wheels.
In a world where moments are fleeting, Michael Lichter’s work transcends time, preserving the legacy of motorcycling and the passion that fuels it. His journey is a testament to the power of following one’s heart and the art of capturing life in motion. Whether it’s through the roar of a bike or the click of a camera shutter, Michael Lichter embodies the spirit of the open road.