Meet Mallory Woods | Photographer, Artist, Entrepreneur, & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mallory Woods and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mallory, how do you think about risk?
When people hear the word “risk,” their brain tends to go straight towards “danger.” When I think about taking risks, I see it as, “it might be more dangerous NOT to take this risk.” I am a goal getter. I set goals and I chase them every chance I get. Life here on Earth is short, and if I only get one shot to take that “risk” then I’m going to chance it!

I took a risk when I started my photography business. I took a risk when I started a YouTube Channel. I took a risk when I bought a new camera, lens, and launched my website. When you start a business from scratch, you’re taking a huge risk. Is anyone going to like my product? Am I going to be any good at this? Will a fail? These are all questions that I asked myself before starting my business. These are also questions that I still ask myself today. I am constantly trying new things and trying to better myself as a business owner and as an artist. But, if it wasn’t for these risks, I wouldn’t be writing this to tell you that it was worth it. My business has taken off, and I am thriving. I get to do what I love every day.

If I hadn’t taken a risk to start my business, I would most likely be thinking about the “what ifs” and “could have beens.” Don’t let fear get in the way of your dreams. If you can dream it, you can do it. Life is too short not to take those easy risks.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
It all started in High School. I was in Art for all four years of my High School Career. I played around with sketching, painting, clay, photography, digital art, etc. My Junior year is when my Art Teacher looked at me and said, have you ever thought about publishing more digital art? I looked at her as I was turning in my first digital piece and literally said “no.” She gave me a half smiled grin and said, “well you definitely have an eye for photography, and I think you should give it a shot.”

This was the year that I completely turned my perspective. At first I thought I had failed at everything else in art class. “Did my paintings suck?” Not to say I was bad at it, because I actually ended up in AP (Advanced Placement) Art my Senior Year. I was a great artist, I just hadn’t found my “niche” yet.

Fast forward almost 10 years and I’m running my own photography business, published my own website, and even beginning a new journey as a Middle School Art Teacher. I still do little art projects here and there. I actually have a second small business called SALT + LIGHT | Handmade Designs where I sell my own handmade items such as polymer clay earrings online.

I also plan to start posting more YouTube videos this summer once I finish my last school year as a Kindergarten Teacher. My channel will feature Behind The Scenes videos, How-To’s, as well as Lifestyle Vlogs showing all of my adventures as an Entrepreneur. Digital Art is definitely my “niche.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m not really one for going out, but I love Clear Fork in Fort Worth! It’s such a cute little area to go strolling through the city, go shopping, and eat good food!

Honestly, I’m more of a brunch and coffee type of girl. So I’d have to say one on of my favorite coffee shops in DFW would have to be Summer Moon Coffee! As someone with gluten and milk allergies, they have the BEST alternative milk options as well as gluten and dairy free snacks. The Gluten-Free Ginger Berry Crumble is my all time favorite!

The country girl in me would also have to go to a concert at Billy Bobs. I love a good Honky Tonk. 🙂

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am a Christian. The Lord is who I walk beside every step of the way on this journey of mine. He gifted me with a talent to teach and to create. So what do I do? Create and teach.

I started reading Live by Sadie Robertson Huff a few months ago. She is a huge inspiration of mine. Her book is full of inspiring words on how to LIVE your life freely, confidently, and to it’s fullest potential! I have always dreamed of publishing a book, and after reading hers, I started drafting notes. I am hoping within the next few years to publish a motivational book of my own.

Jeanine Amapola is another public figure who has inspired me to go the direction I am headed with my life! The way she uses her creativity… (some things in which we both have in common) such as digital art. She has inspired me to really pursue those dreams I have been dreaming for YEARS. God sized dreams y’all. I just want to share the love of Jesus Christ with everyone!
With God on your side, ALL things are possible.

And last, but certainly not least, if it wasn’t for my family, friends, and my wonderful husband, I wouldn’t have this opportunity. They have been my cheerleaders since day one. I got my very first digital camera 8 years ago. It was the BEST Christmas gift EVER from my parents when I was only 16 years old. Looking back I cannot even begin to think of words to describe how thankful and blessed I am to have come this far. The comparison from when I first started to now, brings tears to my eyes. Who would’ve thought that the girl who (quite literally) wanted to try EVERYTHING would still be behind the camera. This definitely was not like that one Christmas I got a guitar and was CERTAIN I’d be famous Rock Star one day… Hey a girl can dream, I just wanted to be Hannah Montana. (Even had the wig to go with it) But this one actually stuck, and I’m so glad it did! Now I’m married and my husband has patiently walked beside me through the GROWTH of my business. Allowing me to take risks because he has faith in me. He tells me everyday, “I know you can do it.” and “I believe in you.” Those simple words mean so much.

Capturing the moment is one of the most beautiful gifts there is. It is the only possible way that you can freeze frame time. Thanks mom, dad, Reid, and to all of my friends and family members who have let me capture their memories since 2012.

Website: www.capturedbywoods.com

Instagram: @themallorywoods

Facebook: www.facebook.com/capturedbywoods

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9rkG0qWaHLN_45JOwP6DTw

Other: My handmade shop – SALT + LIGHT | Handmade Designs www.saltnlight.shop

Image Credits
Jolie Jones