We recently had the chance to connect with MaKayla Gulley and have shared our conversation below.
Hi MaKayla, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I feel a strong calling to pursue photography full time and step away from relying on my day job for stability. My goal has always been to make Midwest Photography my primary career so I can dedicate every day to the work I love. Lately, everything feels aligned, and I believe 2026 will be the year to fully embrace that dream and turn it into reality.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is MaKayla Gulley, I’m a St. Louis based photographer, wife of a high school math teacher, and a mother to two beautiful boys. Midwest Photography is all about keeping things real, fun, and totally stress-free. Whether you’ve been in front of a camera a hundred times or it’s your first shoot ever, I’ve got you.
I believe great photos don’t have to come with awkward poses or over-the-top price tags. My approach is simple: keep it candid, keep it comfortable, and capture moments that actually feel like you. No forced smiles. No pressure. Just genuine connection, real emotion, and images you’ll love for years without having to pay luxury prices for amazing quality.
I’m here to make the whole process easy — from booking to final gallery. I’m known for being calm, professional, and super easy to work with (even if your kids are bouncing off the walls or your timeline is a little chaotic — I totally get it). One thing I believe that makes Midwest Photography stand out from others is our ability to be flexible, whether you’re wanting a light and airy look, dark and moody, vintage feel, we work with our clients to make sure we bring their vision to life so they walk away with photos that’s exactly what they asked for
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Definitely my husband. Growing up, I was shy and reserved, with very low self-esteem. Since meeting him in January 2019, he has encouraged me to see my own worth and to truly believe that I am beautiful, loved, and deserving of respect. We now have two wonderful sons, and he is an exceptional father. I feel blessed to call him the father of my children, and he often compliments me on how I care for our children. We know there’s nothing this world can throw at us that we can’t handle together.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self, “You are enough exactly as you are. Trust your own voice, and don’t let self-doubt keep you from pursuing what makes you happy. Life isn’t about how much money you have in your account, it’s about how much love you have in your heart.”
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie the photography industry tells itself is that you have to pay luxury prices for a good photography and if you aren’t charging luxury prices then you are undervaluing every other photographer in the industry. I understand that photos are not a necessity but no one should have to save up 3 paychecks to be able to afford a 30 minute session where you get 5 photos back.
After having my first child, I searched everywhere for a photographer with a strong portfolio who was also affordable but honestly… I kept coming up short. That’s when I had a thought: Why aren’t there more photographers for the average family? Maybe I can be that person for my clients. Since then, I’ve built my business with that mission at heart. I continue to offer options like “Pay Your Age Minis” twice a year and work with clients to create custom packages that suit their budget because capturing important memories should be accessible to everyone.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Honestly, for me, it’s every time someone books me for their wedding. I understand how much research goes into finding a photographer that’s right for you and fits your budget and someone putting their trust in me for one of the most special days of their lives feels like such an incredible honor, I run to my husband every time and we celebrate together because he knows how much it means to me. I spend the entire day making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible while capturing all the shoots, both important and sweet candid moments you didn’t even realized happened.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://midwestphotography74.mypixieset.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwestphotography365
Image Credits
Midwest Photography
