the heart behind the lens
Allie is a photographer based in New Jersey, with much time spent scattered across Southern California and the world, a 2014 graduate of The School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. Photography has been a part of her life since she was fourteen, when she first fell in love with capturing the interplay of light and nature—particularly the mesmerizing waves of the ocean. Allie’s early career began in action sports, interning with Grind Media under the acclaimed Jean Paul Van Swae, while simultaneously working alongside iconic figures like Art Brewer to document surf culture across the globe.
But her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2008, Allie survived a traumatic brain injury, an experience that reshaped her life and creative path. Before the injury, portraiture was her passion—Allie thrived on capturing the raw, honest beauty in people. However, in the years following, severe depression created a wall between her and her subjects, leaving her feeling disconnected. Seeking healing, Allie turned to photographing action sports and fast-paced subjects, mirroring the chaos in the mind and offering a sense of escape.
Over time, she discovered a different kind of healing through yoga nidra and restorative yoga, practices that invited stillness and self-acceptance. On Allie’s third trip to Bali, she pursued yoga teacher training in Bondalem, a serene paradise on the island’s north coast. It was there, in a place that encouraged authenticity and courage, that she began to reconnect with herself—and with portraiture.
Now, Allie is inspired more than ever to capture the true essence of her clients: their emotions, their beauty, and their stories. Her work is deeply informed by her personal journey—infused with honesty, resilience, and a commitment to seeing people as they truly are. Whether she’s photographing sunlit ocean waves, high-energy action scenes, or heartfelt portraits, Allie’s goal is to create images that evoke emotion and tell a meaningful story.
Thank you for being here—I can’t wait to share this journey with you.
Contact:
alliegrayphoto@gmail.com
@allliecat