Watch a Stunning Time-Lapse Video of California Scenery

Michael Shainblum grew up thinking he wasn't good at anything—until he discovered his knack for beautiful photography.

It's hard to believe photographer Michael Shainblum when he says he thought he was a failure growing up, especially after viewing his gorgeous time-lapse film "Into the Atmosphere."

The film, which showcases the grandeur of California's underexplored wonders, is garnering rave reviews for capturing nature beautifully without relying on cliche California landmarks and settings.

Shainblum answered some of our questions about overcoming learning disabilities and his love for offbeat spots in California.

As a kid, a lot of people would succeed in certain ways that I couldn't. It took me a really long time to learn how to read and write. As a kid, school takes up a good portion of your life. And I wasn't very good at most academics

DON'T MISS THE REST OF THIS STORY!
Create a free account to continue and get unlimited access to hundreds of Nat Geo articles, plus newsletters.

Create your free account to continue reading

No credit card required. Unlimited access to free content.
Or get a Premium Subscription to access the best of Nat Geo - just $19
SUBSCRIBE

Read This Next

Is banning fishing bad for fishermen? Not in this marine reserve
SeaWorld violated the Animal Welfare Act. Why is it still open?
'World’s worst shipwreck' was bloodier than we thought

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet