His father was heavily involved in Anti-Apartheid activities, especially fundraising, and all of this gave Michael early exposure to politicians and social reportage from South Africa. Then, while at London College of Prints and Graphic Arts, Michael Joseph was sent to Vietnam to photograph the war. The images that came about as a result of this trip lead to 33 years of varied advertising assignments – with such companies as Benson and Hedges, Christies, Nivea, Pirelli, Malaysian Airlines, Schweppes and White Horse. He also worked in the fashion industry for Hart, Schaffner and Marks in Chicago. Based on Joseph’s extensive advertising portfolio, he was chosen by the Stones for the “Beggar’s Banquet” shoot.