Michael Dos Santos, CS’03, is a photographer, the president of Versatile Studios and One Drop Rentals, and the creator of the Versa Battery. He began his photography career in New York City as a photo assistant, digital tech, and retoucher, before establishing his own digital production studio in Manhattan and Los Angeles.

Is there a specific experience or individual that empowered you during your time at Northeastern?
My photography professors, especially Neal Rantoul.

What advice do you have for students who are developing their professional identity?
My advice to students developing their professional identity is to go with your gut on what feels right for who you want to be as a professional and not always what others think you should be. I think it’s important to hear what others have to say and listen to their opinions and criticisms in a constructive manner, but ultimately you have to make a decision you believe in.

“I stay involved with Northeastern University because I feel like a good deal of my success comes from the foundation I built with my education and co-op experiences there…”

“I stay involved with Northeastern University because I feel like a good deal of my success comes from the foundation I built with my education and co-op experiences there…”

What advice do you have for students who are interested in starting their own business or working in the media industry?
My advice to anyone wanting to embark on a career in the media/creative industry is to work extremely hard, keep learning and being inspired, and do what makes you happy.

How did you develop the idea for the Versa Battery? Can you describe what it is?
The Versa Battery is an external laptop battery that allows technicians or creatives that are working on location without access to power the ability to stay powered up for much longer than their internal laptop battery will allow. The idea came about because there was a need in the marketplace for a battery that lasted a long time, had a flat shape, and looked a little sleeker than others on the market.

Tell us a little about Versatile Studios and Michael Dos Santos Photography.
Versatile Studios is a full-scale content production company for commercial photography and motion picture. We put together all the pieces that make an entire campaign happen from start to finish! Michael Dos Santos Photography is my way of staying creative. I enjoy shooting portraits, fashion editorials, and my family. Also, as of last year, my archive is represented by Gallery Stock, an international stock agency that appeals to high-end clients.

Why do you stay involved with Northeastern?
I stay involved with Northeastern University because I feel like a good deal of my success comes from the foundation I built with my education and co-op experiences there and I enjoy sharing my story with young students who hopefully are inspired to do great things.