Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa McGarry.
Hi Melissa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my photography business when I was just 15 years old after discovering my passion for photography and realizing almost immediately that I wanted to turn it into a career. Throughout high school, I took on a variety of freelance photography work while trying to figure out where I truly fit creatively. Over time, I found myself continually drawn back to family photography and the emotion and connection that comes with documenting people’s lives.
After graduating high school, I moved to St. Augustine, Florida to attend Flagler College, and that’s really where my business began to grow into what it is today. I honed in on my niche in family photography, capturing everything from maternity sessions and milestone birthdays to engagements and growing families.
In 2020, I was honored to be named Best Photographer of the Year by the The St. Augustine Record as well as receive the Rising Star Young Business Owner award through their 25 Under 40 event. In 2021, I was again named a finalist for Best Photographer. Over the years, I’ve continued growing and scaling my business while building lasting relationships with my clients. Now, in my 11th year of business, I’ve truly had the privilege of growing up alongside so many of the families I photograph. Some of the little ones I first photographed are now taller than me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, but every challenge shaped me into the business owner and photographer I am today. Starting a business at such a young age came with its own challenges. It was difficult at times to be taken seriously, especially in a professional industry where most people were much older than I was.
I also had no formal education in running a business, so much of what I learned came through trial and error. As a solo business owner, I wear every hat myself — photographer, editor, marketer, social media manager, client coordinator, accountant, and more. Learning how to juggle all of those roles while still staying creative took time and a lot of persistence.
One of the most personally transformative moments in my life was unexpectedly losing my mom at just 26 years old. That experience completely changed my perspective on photography and the importance of preserving memories. When all I had left were a handful of photographs, I realized just how priceless family photos truly are. While I had always felt honored to capture my clients’ memories, I now approach every session with an even deeper sense of gratitude and purpose. These images are not just for today — they become part of a family’s legacy.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in family photography with a focus on creating images that feel natural, emotional, and timeless. Over the years, I’ve photographed everything from maternity sessions and milestone birthdays to engagements and growing families, and I feel incredibly grateful to document so many meaningful moments in people’s lives.
I’m known for creating a relaxed and comfortable experience for my clients because I truly believe the best photographs come when people feel like themselves. My style blends candid emotion with intentional composition and detail, creating galleries that feel both genuine and elevated. More than anything, I want my clients to walk away with photographs that become more meaningful as time passes.
What I’m most proud of is the relationships I’ve built throughout the years and the trust my clients continue to place in me. Many families have been with me for years, and getting to grow alongside them has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. Some of the little ones I photographed at the beginning of my business are now taller than me!
I think what sets me apart is the emotional perspective I bring into my work. After unexpectedly losing my mom at 26 years old, my understanding of photography changed completely. When all you have left are a handful of photographs, you realize how priceless those memories truly become. While I’ve always loved capturing memories for my clients, I now approach every session with an even deeper sense of purpose and gratitude. To me, photography is about so much more than creating beautiful images — it’s about preserving moments and connections that one day may mean everything to someone.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that authenticity, connection and going with the flow matter far more than perfection. Some of the most meaningful photographs are the imperfect, emotional, in-between moments that truly reflect real life.
I’ve also learned that building a successful business takes patience, consistency, and resilience. There were many moments of uncertainty along the way, but continuing to show up, trust the process, and stay true to my vision is what ultimately helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.melissamcgarryphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissamcgarryphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissamcgarryphotography
