Today we’d like to introduce you to Travis Malone
Hi Travis, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My photography journey started back in 2000—what my bonus son, Cam, now calls the “old days.” Looking back, he might be right! I was a senior in high school, taking an elective photography class as a way to pass time (or “skip” class, if we’re being honest). Back then, everything on the camera was manual—nothing like the digital era we live in now. I was working with an old Nikon FM2 SLR, where I had to manually adjust exposure, shutter speed, and aperture, compose my shots intentionally, and even develop my own film in a darkroom. It was a completely different world, but being an artist at heart, I naturally gravitated toward it. I had an eye for unique angles and perspectives, and I enjoyed capturing moments in a way that told a story.
But, like many young creatives, I didn’t see photography as a career path at the time. Making money as a photographer seemed impossible—oh, the irony! So after graduating, I put the camera down and pursued Computer Science at Austin Peay State University.
Fast forward to 2010, and my camera found its way back into my hands—this time, as a side hustle. I started shooting club events and parties just to make some extra money. At first, I was working with a cheap little Fuji camera from Walmart, but once I started making a bit of income, I upgraded to my first DSLR, a used Nikon D40. Funny enough, it didn’t even work in any of the auto modes—but that was fine by me because I only knew how to shoot in manual anyway!
That Nikon D40 was the camera I used to shoot my first wedding—for just $200. But that wedding changed everything. It made me realize that photography could be more than just a hustle—it could be a career. That’s when I decided to take it seriously and launched Prestigious Photography, a name inspired by my college crew. I wanted my work to stand out—to be luxurious, timeless, and prestigious.
I became a student of the game, diving deep into books, online courses, and YouTube tutorials to learn everything I could about luxury wedding photography, fine art, posing, composition, and the business side of things. I studied the work of high-end photographers and committed myself to mastering my craft.
One of the biggest turning points in my career came when I landed a gig in Atlanta shooting event photography for the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. It was an amazing experience—hot as heck every day, but still amazing! That opportunity gave me a deeper understanding of the business side of photography—how to market, scale, and build a brand. From there, I made the decision to rebrand my business under my full name: Travis A. Malone Photography.
Now, Travis A. Malone Photography is thriving, built on the foundation of storytelling, emotion, and artistry. Every wedding, engagement, and portrait session I shoot is a chance to create something meaningful—something that will last forever. Looking back, I never would have guessed that skipping class in high school would lead me here. But I wouldn’t change a thing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Has it been a smooth road? Absolutely not! I don’t think this thread is long enough to list everything I’ve faced along the way—the struggle is real! But looking back, as crazy as it sounds, I’m actually grateful for those challenges because they shaped me into the photographer I am today.
One of the biggest struggles early on was not having the money to buy high-end gear. At the time, I couldn’t afford a fully automatic camera, so I had no choice but to use fundamentals I learned in the “old days” —inside and out. That meant mastering manual settings, understanding exposure, and truly becoming one with the camera rather than relying on automation. While it felt like a disadvantage at the time, that struggle became a blessing in disguise. It forced me to develop a deep technical understanding of photography, making me a better artist and storyteller.
But the biggest challenge wasn’t technical—it was mental. Self-doubt, imposter syndrome, paralysis by analysis, anxiety—all of it. There were times when I compared my work to high-end photographers and filmmakers and thought, Man, my work is trash. I’d get discouraged, questioning if I was as successful as I should be. The hardest moments were when bookings slowed down, and I had nothing but time to sit with those thoughts.
That’s when having the right people around you is crucial. You need that support system—the people who remind you that your work is fire, who push you to keep going even when self-doubt creeps in. At the end of the day, success in this industry isn’t just about talent or equipment—it’s about perseverance. It’s about locking in, believing in yourself, and pushing forward no matter what.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in wedding photography and capturing the beauty of couples in love. While I also shoot other genres—including senior portraits, lifestyle sessions, headshots, and corporate events—there’s something truly special about documenting love stories. I consider myself a curator of beautiful imagery, preserving moments that will be cherished for generations.
One thing I’m known for is my distinct and intentional style. My photography is cinematic yet timeless, blending a moody, earthy tone with rich storytelling. I focus on authentic emotions, natural movement, and the perfect balance of light and shadows to create images that feel immersive—like a scene from a beautifully crafted film. Every frame is designed to make the viewer feel something, not just see an image.
But what truly sets me apart is the experience I provide for my clients. It’s more than just taking photos—it’s about making my clients feel comfortable, confident, and truly seen. I take the time to connect with every couple, ensuring their session is not just a shoot but a moment of fun, laughs, and connection. If that means showing them exactly how to pose—no problem, I’ll demonstrate it myself! My clients aren’t just clients; they become family – most of them lol. We build a special bond that lasts beyond the session, and I love seeing their journey grow—from engagements to weddings and even little babies running around.
At the end of the day, my goal isn’t just to deliver stunning images but to create an experience that leaves a lasting impression. When my clients look back at their photos, I want them to not only remember how they looked but to relive exactly how they felt in that moment. Like an old Isley Brothers hit, you know exactly when and where you were at when you first heard it and it just brings you back to the moment. That’s what I strive for with every shot.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Man, this is a tough one because I have so many great memories! But if I had to choose, my favorite would be when my entire family used to come together for the holidays. There was just something special about those moments—pure love, joy, and laughter filling the house. The energy was unmatched. Everyone catching up, cracking jokes, eating good food, and just enjoying each other’s company. It wasn’t about gifts or anything material—it was about the feeling of togetherness.
Looking back, those times taught me the importance of family, connection, and appreciating the people around you. Those holiday gatherings weren’t just events—they were experiences that shaped the way I view relationships and the value of capturing meaningful moments. Maybe that’s why I’m so passionate about photography—because I know how precious those memories really are.
Pricing:
- Weddings Starting at $2500
- Portraits Starting at $300
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.travisamalone.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisamalone/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travisamalonephotography
