Whiz Kid: Photographer Michael Bernstein

See who we chose as this week's Whiz Kid and see how to .

Whiz Kid’s Name:     Michael Bernstein

Whiz Kid’s Age:        17 years old

Whiz Kid’s School:  

Whiz Kid’s Accomplishment:

At age 12, Michael served as the Director of Photography on the ’s Board of Directors for two seasons. He has worked for the San Marino Tribune for the past four years. He’s the founder of a company that recently received legal accreditation from the State of California and serves the , the San Marino Recreation Department and the Los Angeles Chapter of Legal Administrators--just to name a few. He’s also served national clients such as NBA Entertainment and Autism Speaks and has interned as a staff photographer at Staples Center and Nokia Theatre LA Live.  He’s currently a member of the San Marino Titanian Yearbook leadership team as the Sports Editor.

Whiz Kid’s Key to Awesomeness:

The key to Michael’s awesomeness is his open perspective. Whether it’s his ability to see pictures in motion--be it action shots of athletes or beautiful panoramas--or to stay grounded in his success, Michael always remembers to thank the people who stand behind him and support him in all his ventures. 

Michael would first like to thank his father, , who taught him everything he knows about photography and helped him realize that vision; every day he is learning from the master is a blessing. He would also like to thank his stepmom, Susú, for all the support she has provided in everything. His success wouldn’t have been possible without her encouragement.

He recognized and wants to express his gratitude to the people of this community (Mr. Kevin McCloskey, Mr. Mitch Lehman and Mr. Jose Caire) who have given him the opportunities that cultivate and foster his passion of photography.  

Michael’s humility is definitely what keeps him on the right track now and hopefully into the future. The fact that he does so much photography for the schools in his home and his community will keep him grounded as he continues to advance himself, his company and his craft. He incorporates this earnestness into his photography. All these elements, coupled with his continuing passion for his art, will take him far.

Michael's Family:

Michael went to  and  before attending . His father is and an alumnus of UMASS Amherst and Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. His step mother is Mariel “Susú” Mulet, a labor and employment attorney and alumnus of USC. 

Michael has three sisters: Helen Bugacov (step-sister) and Juliet Bernstein, both of whom are 16 years old and attend San Marino High School; and his youngest step-sister, Emilia “Mimi” Bernstein, who is three years old and currently enrolled at . Their family also has a cat named Lola.

Bonus Questions:

What is your favorite food?: Burger and fries

What is the last book you read for pleasure?: Born on the Fourth of July by Ron Kovic

If you had the power to change one thing and make the world a better place, what would it be?: “I would strive to end terrorism and tyranny so we can bring our troops home.”