We recently connected with Mallory Corr and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mallory , thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on recently was photographing Clairo’s Charm Tour for Polyester Zine. I started photographing concerts and musicians around the age of 13. I’d camp out for hours, sneak around barricades, and tuck my pink point-and-shoot into my bra to get past security, all for the chance to capture photos I’d be proud to put up on MySpace and Flickr.

Growing up outside of Philadelphia, one of my favorite venues was The Electric Factory, now called Franklin Music Hall. I’d watch the (predominantly male) photographers with their press badges and fancy gear shuffle into the pit before the show started and think, “Oh my god, if I could just get in there with them, I know I could take great photos.” I was so admirous and jealous at the same time.

What made this project truly meaningful was how personal it felt. Photographing Clairo at that same venue I frequented as a kid was a full-circle moment. Not just because I got to combine my love for music photography with an opportunity to document an artist whose music I adore but also because I really felt like I belonged there. I created some incredible images and experienced this childhood wish fulfillment in the form of my dream career as an artist.

I strive to create work that not only documents but also immerses the viewer in a feeling—and these photos did just that. Even though the story didn’t end up running, creating work for an incredibly cool DIY feminist publication that uplifts independent creatives was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do. It reinforced my belief in the importance of putting yourself out there, taking creative risks, and trusting your perspective as an artist.

Mallory , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a portrait and music photographer, creative strategist, and visual storyteller with over 15 years of experience behind the camera. My photography journey formerly started at Tisch School of the Arts, where I earned my degree from the Department of Photography & Imaging. Still, my love for capturing people and moments began way before NYU. I’ve been photographing everyone around me as a means of preservation for as long as I can remember. That thing about not knowing you’re in the good ol’ days until they’re gone has never resonated with me. I know all we have is now, so I do everything in my power to create images that will work like magic, conjuring the feelings of this moment far into the future.

My work spans portrait, music, and brand photography, with a special emphasis on pop-up portrait events—building community around unique, immersive photography experiences. Whether it’s a Valentine’s Day-themed shoot or a creative collaboration with a local business, my pop-ups make professional photography accessible, fun, and personal. I also specialize in family and couple portraits, live music photography, and creative brand storytelling. Beyond photography, I offer content strategy, social media management, and copywriting, helping brands and creatives craft a visual and narrative identity that resonates.

What sets me apart is my ability to capture people as they are through moments of genuine connection. While they require different skills, I have the same general approach to photographing a pop star in front of thousands of screaming fans as I do a couple sharing a quiet moment together before walking down the aisle. I create an experience where people feel seen, comfortable, and celebrated. That same mindset applies to my creative strategy work—I help brands and businesses translate their essence into compelling visuals and messaging that resonate with their audience.

If it’s a keepsake for someone’s family or an album cover, I want to make work that feels real and simultaneously a little magical —photos that mean something. I love collaborating with people who care about what they’re creating, whether it’s for a brand, a band, or just for themselves.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Creativity isn’t just something I do—it’s the core of who I am. It’s instinctive, constant, and the driving force behind my work. I’ve always been drawn to capturing moments, translating emotions into something tangible, and creating images that feel alive. Photography became my primary medium, but my creative impulse extends beyond just taking pictures—it’s about storytelling, strategy, and crafting visuals that truly connect with people.

For those who don’t work in a creative field, it can be hard to understand that this isn’t just a job or a side passion. The creative path isn’t easy; there’s no clear ladder to climb, no set roadmap, and success looks different for everyone. It requires persistence, self-trust, and the ability to embrace uncertainty. But for me, the challenges are always worth it because I believe in the power of what I create.

That’s why I love working with clients who value authenticity, connection, and great storytelling. Whether it’s through portrait sessions, pop-up photography events, live music coverage, or creative brand strategy, I collaborate with people who want more than just a nice image—they want photos and content that feel real, intentional, and full of life. My work is about making sure your moments, your brand, and your story are captured in a way that feels true to you.

If that resonates with you, reach out! Let’s create something meaningful together.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society loves to romanticize artists—until it’s time to actually pay them. If we want a thriving creative ecosystem, the best thing people can do is value creative work the way they value any other profession. Exposure doesn’t pay rent. Passion doesn’t erase bills. Artists shouldn’t have to justify why their work deserves fair compensation. If you love art, music, photography, design—support the people making it. Hire them, pay them fairly, share their work, and advocate for policies that fund the arts. Beyond financial support, we need a shift in mindset. Creativity isn’t just a luxury or entertainment—it shapes culture, builds communities, and makes life worth living.

Additionally, I recommend an audit of your media diet. I try to do this often. Who are you watching, reading, listening to? Whose work are you engaging with? Mindfully diversify your media consumption because the world isn’t just one story. Seek out and support work by women, queer artists, and people of color. If we want a creative ecosystem that truly thrives, we have to make space for a range of voices—not just the ones that have always dominated the conversation.

And when it comes to artists supporting fellow artists– DO NOT undervalue your work. When we collectively uphold the worth of what we create, we make it easier for all of us to thrive. Charge your worth, take up space, and remind yourself that what you create matters. A rising tide lifts all boats. And speaking of water, go drink some—you’re probably dehydrated.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mallorycorr.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/mallorycorr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-corr-4a84ab57/
• Other: https://mallorycorr.substack.com/

Image Credits

All images by Mallory Corr