about.
learn about rGRAYphotography and photographer Rudy Gray.
Based in Port Jefferson, Long Island, New York, rGRAYphotography is a full-service photography studio dedicated to the capturing of the most memorable images and creating extraordinary photographic art. Photographing athletes and dancers; high school seniors, teens and tweens; professional headshots and branding.
Don’t settle for ordinary photos… Let’s create EXTRAORDINARY photographic art.
Who’s the man?
Hello there! 👋
I'm Rudy, a photographer and an artist. But above all, I'm a husband and a dad. Since 1996, I've been happily married to my best friend, Dara, and together we have the joy of raising three wonderful and loving young individuals: Dylan, Hayden, and Megan.
Photography isn't just my job—it's my passion. They say if you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life. And that's exactly how I feel when I am capturing those special moments in people's lives and turning them into beautiful images and cherished memories, whether in print or digital form.
I'm not one to stick to the ordinary or follow the “normal” path because, honestly, what is normal? I'm all about exploring new ideas, pushing boundaries, and creating fresh, unique looks that stand out from the crowd. Every client I work with is beautiful and totally unique, and that's why I'm dedicated to delivering something truly exceptional for each and every one of them.
Creating portraits that possess both artistic flair and timeless appeal is my aspiration. I strive to capture extraordinary images that exude modernity, fashion-forward aesthetics, and genuine emotion. Each photograph I take is meant to be expressive, dramatic, and leave a lasting impact on anyone who sees it. My ultimate goal with every client is to transform those fleeting moments into captivating visuals that resonate deeply and become treasured memories for a lifetime.
“I take pictures. Photographic pictures.”
Influences
I have loved photography since I studied it in high school in the 1980's. I first became mesmerized with the images of a Dutch photographer named Anton Corbijn. He had captured what are now considered timeless images of all my then-favorite bands and musicians - The Cure, Depeche Mode, U2, Morrissey, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, George Michael, and on and on.... Up to this day, Anton Corbijn remains my biggest influence. He has produced many of my favorite images (and even directed a music video) of The Killers – my favorite band of the past 16+ years.
Anton’s images are expressive, thought provoking and full of raw emotion. My passion to create artistic and expressive images, and my obsession for black and white finishes all came from my love for Anton Corbijn’s work.
In the realm of high school senior photography, staying "modern" and "trendy" calls for a keen focus on the client's outfits, poses, style, and the skillful exploration and manipulation of vibrant colors and lighting. To continually elevate my craft, I draw inspiration and seek ongoing education from a multitude of exceptional contemporary photographers.
LIndsay Adler, a prominent beauty and fashion photographer, stands as one of my top sources of inspiration. Her work reflects a remarkable understanding of capturing stunning visuals in the world of beauty and fashion.
Shannon L Sewell, an editorial-style fashion photographer and stylist, holds a special place as my favorite. Her portfolio exudes a natural and carefree vibe, effortlessly capturing the essence of her subjects.
Another influential figure is Mario Masitti, an outstanding senior photographer with a distinct fashion-forward approach. Not only does his work inspire me, but he also serves as an exceptional educator and advisor, sharing his expertise and knowledge generously.
By seeking inspiration from these incredible contemporary photographers, I continuously strive to enhance my skills, expand my creativity, and offer my clients the very best in modern and trendy high school senior photography.
Through my work with athletes, I have had the privilege of being inspired and guided by some of the industry's finest, such as James Quantz and Matt Hernandez. These two exceptionally talented photographers are true masters when it comes to capturing dramatic sports portraits and playing with lighting techniques. Their expertise extends not only to the art of photography but also to the intricacies of the sports and commercial photography industries. They have been invaluable sources of inspiration and guidance in my own journey.
“Only fear can stand on potential’s hands”
A New Path
Back in 2015, while I was working as a route delivery driver for a food service company, a workplace injury led to the discovery that I had developed lumbar degenerative disc disease. I was told by my doctor that the condition of my back will not allow me to do my job (or any job that required a lot of lifting) any longer.
So, while I was recovering and rehabbing from the injury – for over two years – I began investing in what I’ve always wanted to do, but never got the chance to do earlier in my life: portrait photography.
I took online courses and studied with professional photographer-mentors. I set out to be different than other local professional photographers. My early sports work caught the attention of the Comsewogue High School Varsity Boys Basketball coach, Joel Sutherland. He gave me the opportunity to create images for the team's media guide and their senior night posters, along with taking action shots at the team’s games. The senior posters for the boys basketball team were such a hit that opportunities from the other high school teams at Comsewogue and other schools came along the way.
My work with high school and youth athletes eventually led me to the work I was so eager to do: portraiture - the art of creating portraits.
“Anytime I see trouble in my life, it becomes an opportunity...”
Achievements
I am most humbled to have had my work published and featured in online and print media publications including Newsday, Times Beacon Record, Senior Year Magazine, Teen Years Magazine, Senior Style Guide, Modern Teen Magazine, SeniorInspire, seniorMUSE, Inspiring Teens, American Motorcyclist, Canon, Sequential, various other seniors-centric digital media platforms and music industry digital media.
“‘Cause I don’t shine if you don’t shine!”
Portrait photographer Rudy Gray is based in Port Jefferson, Long Island, New York, where he lives with his wife Dara and their three children.
Photographing athletes and dancers; high school seniors, teens and tweens; professional headshots and branding.
Port Jefferson, Long Island, New York.
✌️❤️
“There’s gonna be opposition, but we’ve got everything we need”