Mike Keesling

Mike Keesling is a multi-talented individual with a wide range of skills in engineering, design, and invention. With extensive experience in mechanical design, opto-mechanical design, embedded hardware and software, electronics and optics, he has developed a broad range of competencies. His spectrum of interests includes photography, art, sculpture, and writing. Keesling's passion for invention has led him to swiftly bring to life robotics and imaging systems through leveraging design techniques ranging from 3D printing and water-jet cutting to CNC milling and wire EDM.

Keesling has contributed to numerous industry projects during his career. He worked as Director of Product Development at Panavision, where he extensively worked on Meta-data, cosmetic design of a line of HD primes, the Hylen System, motion control, and intelligent versions of the Frasier lens and Super Techno crane. He also worked at Applied Minds as the Director of Electro-Optics, contributing to the development of innovative projects, such as Clifford Ross’ i3 Cyclorama, 20 Gigipixel digital camera, Army's Rapid Equipping Force prototyping lab, the 10,000-year clock, Genworth Aging Suit, and the Maxi Mog. Keesling invented a remarkable piece of technology while with Clairmont Camera, the Image Shaker, which won the Academy Award and the Emmy Award. He also participated in the development of the Squishy Lens, Swing and Tilt Lenses, 150-600 Zoom Lens, and other Clairmont products.

Furthermore, Keesling is a talented writer and has been published in Circuit Cellar, Nuts N Volts, Digital Camera Magazine, and Compound Semiconductor Magazine. Alongside his writing, he is also great with photography, illustration, and art, as evidenced by his contributions to Savage Magazine, Flash Magazine, and Extra! Magazine. Keesling studied at Ulysses S. Grant Senior High School.