Born in Dallas, Texas in 1969 and raised in Los Angeles, CA, Mike Boden's first introduction to photography began at a very young age during summer camp. Many extra-curricular activities were offered, and Mike was torn between rock climbing and photography. He elected to pursue photography and was eventually introduced to rock climbing during his college years. This was when Mike's passion for his natural surroundings flourished, and he started to see the world from a unique perspective.

Mike pursued his undergraduated studies in Telecommunications and Film at San Diego State University. Although he had an emphasis in post-production sound for film and television, he continued with his photographic interest through the many classes offered in the film department. It was here that Mike learned the techniques of a traditional darkroom, and perfected his craft by studying master filmmakers and cinematographers.