We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tristan Quigley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tristan below.
Alright, Tristan thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?
In 2009, when I officially launched my business, I was only taking on a small number of clients. At the time, I was raising two young daughters, and in January 2010, our family relocated from Florida to San Diego after my late husband accepted a position at Rady Children’s Hospital. Growing my clientele through word of mouth took time, but the business expanded each year. After his passing in 2013, with three daughters to support, I focused on accelerating the growth of my business. Now in 2024, I run a full-time luxury photography business, offering a client wardrobe, personalized styling, and stunning heirloom products. I take pride in providing a stress-free, one-of-a-kind experience that’s truly unique.


Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
For those who don’t know me, I’m Tristan Quigley, the owner of Tristan Quigley Photography and a mom to six amazing kids. My beautiful studio is located in the Poinsettia Village shopping center in South Carlsbad, and I also capture sessions at stunning locations throughout San Diego, like Encinitas, La Jolla, Oceanside, and beyond. I specialize in luxury portrait photography, focusing on maternity clients, newborns, seniors, and families. With over 16 years of experience, I love taking the stress off my incredible clients. Life is busy—let me handle the details. I offer a full wardrobe to borrow from, provide gorgeous artwork you’ll cherish for years, and make sure your session is a fun and memorable experience!


What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is capturing moments that families will cherish for a lifetime. Whether it’s the beauty of a growing baby bump during a maternity session, the preciousness of a tiny newborn, a senior preparing to embark on their next chapter, or the heartfelt connections within a family, I’m here to document these special times. Life moves quickly, and one of the best ways to preserve these memories is through stunning, heirloom-quality portraits.


Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
In addition to capturing beautiful family moments, I’m passionate about helping women and mothers feel truly beautiful. Pregnancy can sometimes leave you feeling less than your best, the exhaustion and demands of early motherhood can take their toll, and as your children grow, so much of your energy goes into them. Some of the most meaningful feedback I’ve received has been from mothers who were nervous to step in front of the camera but ended up feeling so beautiful in their photos. As parents, we’re often behind the lens, snapping memories on our phones—but I encourage all parents out there: step into the photos and be a part of the memories!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tristanquigleyphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tristanquigleyphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tristanquigleyphotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristan-quigley-photography
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/tristan-quigley-photography-carlsbad-2



