Michael A. Alston is an American commercial photographer, filmmaker, explorer, artist, and influencer specializing in advertising, documentaries, and humanitarian/environmental initiatives.
As the founder of 3:33 Studios, his work has been featured in Men’s Health Magazine, ABC, and ESPN+.
Over the years, Alston has worked on projects across the globe, leaving his mark in Washington, D.C., Florida, California, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, New York, and Canada. In addition to his work with 3:33 Studios, he launched The NightOwl Collective, a subsidiary company dedicated to fostering collaboration among elite photographers, filmmakers, and models, pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.
With unshakable vision and relentless drive, Alston is on a mission to become the most influential filmmaker on the East Coast, transforming 3:33 Studios into a powerhouse that not only competes with, but surpasses industry giants like Lionsgate, Paramount Pictures, 20th Century Studios, Sony Pictures, A24, and Columbia Pictures. His goal isn’t just to join the conversation—it’s to rewrite the script entirely. By fusing raw creativity with cutting-edge innovation, he aims to disrupt the industry, break barriers, and build a legacy that reshapes the future of film.
About 3:33 Studios
3:33 Studios is a creative media company made up of artists, innovators, and explorers—all shaping new methods of filmmaking and digital storytelling. We thrive when we push our techniques beyond the realm of typical environments.
We’re proud to have worked on a wide range of projects, including collaborations with Austin Dunham, The Lost Breed, The UFC, and Hyperfly, as well as national political and commercial advertisements.
Our goal is simple: Aspire To Inspire. We believe in the power of photography and cinematography to tell stories that resonate and drive change.
From humble beginnings, we grew ourselves to the top. And we want others to know that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to.
Everyone holds the potential—it’s just about how you use it. Your goals are possible. Your dreams are attainable.
Go! Visualize what you want from life and take it!
Artist Statement
In the fall of 2017, I took a huge risk—I quit my job. I was unhappy, unfulfilled, and constantly stressed. Eventually, I fell into depression and had to seek therapy. But one day, I realized that sitting around feeling sorry for myself wouldn’t change my circumstances.
I had to take action.
I’d always been drawn to photography and film, often hearing that I had a creative eye. After talking with a few friends, I decided to invest in my first camera. At first, it was just a hobby, something to fill the time. But soon, it became my passion. Within a year, I taught myself everything I know and had the opportunity to work with some of the world’s most unique brands and social media influencers.
That’s when I founded 3:33 Studios.
The number 333 is often seen as a powerful sign of alignment, encouragement, and divine support—a reminder that you’re on the right path and that your creativity, growth, and purpose are being guided. I kept seeing 3:33 everywhere, and it felt like a sign that I was meant to pursue this journey.
But 3:33 Studios is more than just photography and film. It’s a movement. It’s about inspiring others to chase their dreams, no matter the circumstances. Aspire to Inspire is more than a tagline—it’s a mission. I want my journey to show that with hard work, dedication, and resilience, success is possible. No goal is out of reach.
If my work can inspire even one person to believe in themselves and take that first step, then I’ve done my job. I hope you enjoy my work and, more importantly, carry this message forward.
Remember to always Aspire to Inspire.
– M. Alston