Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Bailey That Photo Guy.
Hi Christopher Bailey, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
“My journey into photography started in an unexpected way. At 15 years old, I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a condition I had never even heard of, much less knew how to pronounce. Shortly after, I went into respiratory failure and was placed into a coma for about a week. When I woke up, my grandfather handed me a camera — a Canon Rebel XT — and unknowingly gave me something that would change the direction of my life.
My grandfather was an event photographer through Uncle Dude’s Photography, and I began tagging along with him to family reunions, company picnics, banquets, and events. I started taking pictures of everything around me and driving through the city capturing candid moments and scenes that caught my attention. Photography quickly became more than taking pictures; it became a way for me to see and experience life differently.
Later, my mother introduced me to photographer Jay Baker, who saw one of my skyline images of Jacksonville and told me, ‘You have an eye for photography.’ He encouraged me to always keep my camera nearby — ‘Have camera, will travel.’ That advice stayed with me and helped shape the artistic side of my work. I later learned that he was a respected photographer who had documented moments dating back to the 1960s. Between my grandfather and Jay Baker, I was given mentorship and inspiration that continues to impact me today.
I wanted to create images that felt unique and memorable — something that could make people stop and feel something. I would climb ladders, shoot from unusual angles, and push myself creatively to capture images from a different perspective. That mindset became the foundation behind the name ‘That PhotoGuy.’ I didn’t want to simply use my name; I wanted a brand people would remember. My mom and I came up with the name, and it stuck.
I opened BAI House Studio, a creative space designed to be a one-stop shop where photographers can simply bring their camera and clients and create. I also launched the Creators Garage Sale, bringing creatives together to buy, sell, trade equipment, network, and gain hands-on experience.
Today, I’m still growing, still learning, and still chasing the same goal I had when I first picked up that camera — creating meaningful images and building opportunities for others. Photography gave me a different perspective on life, and now I want to help others see it too.”
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
“Has the road been smooth? Absolutely not. Photography is more than taking pictures — it’s balancing artistry, business, technology, family, and life all at once. The industry constantly evolves, and keeping up with new equipment, software, and creative trends can be expensive and demanding. At the same time, Photography is an investment, and balancing family, fatherhood, work, and growing as a creative professional has taken dedication and sacrifice. But every challenge pushed me to continue building.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What sets Me (That PhotoGuy) apart is the ability to see beyond the image itself. My photography is rooted in emotion, storytelling, and human connection. After surviving Myasthenia Gravis at a young age, I developed a deeper appreciation for moments that many people overlook. That perspective influences every shoot, every concept, and every creative decision I make.
I would say I’m known for capturing authentic energy and creating memorable experiences for clients rather than simply taking posed photographs. Whether shooting candid city moments, portraits, branding sessions, Weddings or creative concepts, My goal is always the same to create images that feel alive and unforgettable.
My commitment to community. Through BAI House Studio and the annual Creators Garage Sale, Just helping cultivate opportunities for other photographers and creatives in Jacksonville. I think my work extends beyond photography Im building spaces where creativity, collaboration, and inspiration can thrive.”
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
In January 2025, I took another major step in my creative journey by opening BAI House Studio — a creative studio space designed to be a one-stop shop for photographers and content creators. I wanted to create a space where photographers could simply walk in with their camera and clients and immediately begin creating.
The studio offers a variety of backdrops, props, themed décor, and staged settings that allow photographers to bring their vision to life without the pressure of purchasing or transporting everything themselves. Whether someone is shooting portraits, branding content, family photos, or artistic concepts, the space is designed to support creativity at every level. Rates are flexible and based on each photographer’s individual vision and session needs.
Creating BAI House Studio was never just about opening a business. It was about building a creative environment that encourages collaboration, accessibility, and growth for Jacksonville’s photography community.
That same mindset inspired me to launch the first annual Creators Garage Sale in 2025 — an event where photographers, videographers, and creatives can come together to buy, sell, and trade equipment, network with one another, and gain hands-on experience in the industry. What started as a simple idea quickly became an opportunity to connect local creatives and strengthen the community.
The next Creators Garage Sale will take place on July 12, 2026, and I hope it continues growing into a space where creatives can learn from each other, support one another, and keep pushing the culture forward.
Pricing:
- Studio Rentals are $75Hr
- Session with me start at $300
Contact Info:
- Website: cbaileys.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thatphotoguy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CBaileys
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/baihousestudio
