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Biography

In a world of constant challenges, success depends on our ability to reimagine what’s possible. Through stunning visuals and compelling storytelling, Jon Carmichael helps organizations and individuals transform their perceived limits into launching points for breakthrough success. Jon’s journey from passionate photographer to worldwide inspiration proves that when we dare to reimagine our boundaries, we discover opportunities we never knew existed.

A world-renowned astrophotographer celebrated for capturing the critically acclaimed “history’s most amazing photograph,” Jon Carmichael captivated the world when he unveiled his image of the 2017 Great American Eclipse, taken from an airplane at 39,000 feet after years of meticulous planning. His relentless pursuit of a seemingly impossible vision—convincing the captain of a commercial airliner to alter its course—embodies the power of audacity, empowerment, and aiming higher. The thrilling story behind the photograph and the obstacles he overcame have inspired audiences worldwide.

Beyond his stunning visual work, Jon is a remarkable storyteller and business motivational speaker. His signature Eclipse Mindset challenges individuals and teams to push past perceived limitations, embrace bold thinking, and elevate their goals beyond what seems possible. Through his inspiring keynotes, he shares how vision, grit, and daring action lead to extraordinary breakthroughs. His storytelling compels audiences to take risks, defy expectations, and confidently navigate uncertainty—turning obstacles into stepping stones for success.

Jon’s captivating work has been spotlighted on Good Morning America, the Wall Street Journal, INC Magazine, USA Today, and even Times Square. With over 20 years of experience, he has been the trusted lead photographer for top brands such as Twitter, Dell, Microsoft, and ESPN.

His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with notable figures like President Obama, the Dalai Lama, David Copperfield, Lady Gaga, and even Batman. A pivotal moment in Jon’s career came in 2015 when Elton John, a renowned photography enthusiast, became the first to collect his limited-edition photographs, marking a transformative turn in his artistic journey.

Jon Carmichael doesn’t just deliver a speech—he takes audiences on an immersive journey that aligns with their unique challenges and aspirations. Whether the focus is on leadership, innovation, resilience, or pushing beyond perceived limits, Jon weaves his message through breathtaking real-world stories of chasing audacious dreams and redefining what’s possible.

With stunning visuals, heartfelt emotion, and moments that make audiences laugh, reflect, and dream bigger, Jon’s keynotes are more than just talks—they’re transformative experiences designed to ignite ambition, fuel innovation, and inspire people to aim higher than they ever thought possible.

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The Eclipse Mindset: How to Prepare for the Moments That Change Everything

Jon Carmichael’s journey to capturing one of history’s most breathtaking images of a solar eclipse wasn’t just about photography—it was about perspective, audacity, and the relentless pursuit of possibility. In this inspiring keynote, Jon shares how embracing The Infinite Mindset—one that sees beyond obstacles and reimagines limitations—allowed him to turn uncertainty into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.


Through captivating storytelling and stunning visuals, Jon takes audiences on his journey from a childhood dream to a high-stakes mission at 39,000 feet, where teamwork, intuition, and bold thinking led to a breakthrough moment. Just like an eclipse reveals a hidden beauty that’s only visible for a fleeting moment, Jon shows how our biggest opportunities often emerge from the shadows of challenge and change.


Audiences will leave equipped with:
• A powerful shift in perspective—how to eclipse self-doubt and old ways of thinking
• Strategies for embracing uncertainty as a launchpad for innovation
• The courage to take bold action, even when the path is unclear
• A renewed sense of curiosity and limitless possibility


Jon’s story proves that when we step into our eclipse moment—where preparation, intuition, and risk-taking collide—we can transform setbacks into breakthroughs and create history.


Customized for Every Audience
Whether your focus is on adaptability, innovation, teamwork, leadership, or embracing uncertainty, Jon weaves his message through incredible, real-world stories of chasing audacious dreams and redefining what’s possible.


From capturing history’s most breathtaking eclipse image at 39,000 feet to meeting icons like President Obama, Elton John, and the Dalai Lama, Jon shares powerful lessons of curiosity, resilience, and bold thinking that resonate across industries. His ability to tailor his storytelling ensures that every audience, from corporate leaders to creative visionaries, leaves with actionable inspiration and a renewed mindset for breakthrough success.

Testimonials

Just wanted to send a quick message about Jon Carmichael. Amazing! He was absolutely perfect for our audience. Definitely someone others should be booking. Funny, vulnerable, inspiring. Everything we needed to close out the day. Ranks up there in my top five of all time speakers. Thank you for helping us get him.
– Iowa Hospital Association
Jon is incredibly talented, but also reveals the hard, darker, honest side of the creative process, which as a creative myself is incredibly affirming to hear. It is not just magic--though that is a part of it--it's a lot of hard work. He's an inspiration--and I look forward to hearing and seeing more from Jon. I told him he should write a book.
– LIMRA
Jon Carmichael is the living Vivian Maier. Honoured to be his first collector and hope more people hear his story.
– ELTON JOHN
Jon is the most genuine person I have met in this industry. He approached our partnership with humility and gratitude. Jon is professional, dependable, and an incredibly talented storyteller. His story is relatable and touching no matter what industry, stage of life, or background you come from. Truly grateful to have secured Jon so early in his career, I know he is going to continue to do amazing things.
– Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
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