Perhaps you’ve seen the Prada Marfa picture? You know, the one of the Prada store with the big red bow in Marfa, Texas?
Gray Malin is offering free framing this week on his images April 12th (today) through April 19th. If you want one, order it this week!
Perhaps you’ve seen the Prada Marfa picture? You know, the one of the Prada store with the big red bow in Marfa, Texas? Gray Malin is the brilliant photographer behind the camera in that shot. Malin is also known for his amazing aerial photography. I truly fell in love with Malin’s work because it is happy, cheerful and fun. (I am partial to his llamas and zebras ). I am certain whoever views his images will feel a “moment of joy”. Of course, I asked him for an interview and the internet gods were smiling down on me that day because he said yes! Interview questions and answers below.
ID:Where did you grow up?
GM:Dallas, TX – yeehaw
ID:Tell us a little about yourself and how Gray Malin, the photographer, and the lifestyle website came to be.
GM: I was raised in Dallas and went to college in Boston at Emerson. After graduation, I moved to Los Angeles where I initially worked in the entertainment industry before taking the leap to focus on my true passion, fine art photography. Starting small at a local flea market, I honed my skills as well as learned first hand what people really connect with and want in their home. From there it grew into working out of my home with a single intern. Within a couple of years, it became the lifestyle brand that it is today and continues to become. My ultimate goal as a photographer, as well as a lifestyle brand, is to give the audience a captured moment of joy that will last for many years to come.
ID:Did you have a camera as a child?
GM: My grandfather had a beautiful collection of cameras and his photography hobby definitely influenced my father who always had a camera in tow. I can’t remember the first time I took pictures with a camera, but I was definitely a youngster. Then, I discovered the dark room in high school. It was a totally addicting experience watching my images slowly come to life in the developing trays.
More interview questions following images
ID: Who was your first mentor?
GM: I wouldn’t be where I am today without the incredible guidance of my high school photography teacher, Janis Hefley and my post-college mentor and photographer friend, Aline Smithson.
ID: Name one person you admire
GM: Hilary Clinton
ID: Do you feel fulfilled by the work that you do?
GM: Yes, absolutely. The possibilities are infinite.
More interview questions following images
ID: Along the way, what have been some of your biggest challenges when it comes to realizing your success.
GM: It seems like every week there is an a-ha moment as new and exciting things pass through our office that keeps us all inspired. I just love bringing joy and happiness to an audience of fun-spirited people and hopefully inspire them in some way. The challenges are always welcomed!
ID:A career highlight?
GM: The entire year of 2015 was pretty incredible with partnerships with Sperry, Veuve Clicquot, and Le Meridien, then 2016 is already off to an incredible start with my first book, BEACHES, releasing on May 10th.
ID:Do you have a favorite photographer? Do you have any of their work hanging in your home?
GM:I have been a long time admirer of Slim Aarons work and had the pleasure of meeting his daughter in my studio last year. I own many of his photography books (here, here and here)
More interview questions following images
What are your top three locations where you’ve photographed?
They are all different, so it’s hard to narrow down to specific shots. Antarctica was by the far the most difficult series I have ever shot, Far Far Away in the Salt Flats of Bolivia was one of the most intriguing and then, I love the most recent addition to our A la Plage collection from the chic island of St. Barths.
ID:What do you like to do when you are not working?
GM: I love relaxing with my husband and dog at our home. With travel being such a big part of my career, it makes you really appreciate the quieter moments. My home is very much my happy place.
ID: Tell us a random fact about Gray Malin that we would be surprised to know.
GM: I make a delicious queso dip. Oh, and I can kiss my elbow.
Gray, thank you from the bottom of my heart for this interview. I absolutely feel joy when I look at your images. Looking forward to all your future endeavors. Whatever it may be, I’m sure it will make us smile. P.S. Where can we find that queso dip recipe?
Images courtesy of Gray Malin
Hannah, your support and appreciation means so much to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart <3
Thank you for taking the leap and asking for this interview–it takes grit to say to an artist and “busy person”, stop, drop & interview! This interview epitomizes your coolness. As always, thanks. Hannah
Thanks for your support, Lara! Glad you liked the interveiw <3
Excellent interview! Would love to have one of his pieces, but I think I may have to purchase his book! Great for a coffee table book!
Barbara, thank you so much! I appreciate your support so much! xoxo
Loved this interview Carrie,
Well Done