Justin Tate's Reviews > Life, Camera, Action

I don't know much about landscape photography, but I do know Mitchell Burns is so smokin' hot he should be considered a natural wonder of the world. Every time he posts a new Instagram video I transform into a Victorian woman, bosom heaving, fan waving, soon to faint.

Of course it's not just his heartstopping smile, textbook Aussie accent and teasing man-cleavage which makes him such a hunk. There are plenty of attractive dudes on Instagram. A significant portion of Mitchell's sexiness comes from his talent as a photographer and, more importantly, an infectious passion for his craft. Joy oozes from his videos as we see him in his element, wading through Outback rivers or on a beach at sunrise. He educates his audience on the hard work that goes into capturing the perfect shot in a gleeful way that can't be faked. It's abundantly clear: nature and photography are his passions — and, I must say, passion looks good on him.

He also has a cool personal story which many tortured artists will relate to. In the book, we learn how he spent a decade working in the soul-crushing field of mining. Burns saw his colleagues wither away at a young age and grew increasingly fearful his life would end up the same. Sure, the money was good, but was this how he wanted to spend his life? Since a very young boy, photography has been his true desire. He can't imagine it being just a part-time hobby.

Without much of a plan, he takes the courageous step of quitting the reliable mining job and pursuing photography. Though he never regrets the decision, many years go by before he will be able to survive with more than a few dollars in the bank account. Even now, with massive online followers and agents knocking down his door, most potential sources of income don't pan out. We close the book feeling inspired by his determination and ever aware that the road to happiness is often scary. Still, he is proof that the reward can make it all worthwhile.

Fans will enjoy many chapters detailing Mitchell's family and upbringing. We get to follow along for the meet-cute he had with his girlfriend. I kinda hate her for stealing him, but am very appreciative that she is a significant source of his joy. I also think her female gaze is what makes his videos so titillating. Mitchell, bless him, seems very shy and aloof about how hot he is. But she understands the assignment. We love his photography, yes, but we also love keeping those top buttons unfastened. For that, we thank you Jessie. Keep doing the Lord's work.

Overall, I must say I'm impressed by the book. I didn't expect a miner/photographer/model to also be a proficient writer, but this is a good story of overcoming obstacles and reaching for the stars. I felt genuinely inspired by it, and it wasn't just because Burns narrates the audiobook and the sound of his voice gave me all sorts of filthy fantasies.

I SWEAR!!!