my story

Hello! I’m Shawn Salley, an editorial and theatre photographer based in New York City. I create narrative images that jump off the page or screen to capture audience's attention whether it's out on location, in my midtown studio, or on the stage.

Prior to taking on a full-time career in photography, I worked as a middle school music teacher. Over time, I’ve discovered that many of the same artistic details I love about music – the drama, the textures, the stories, the contrast – also applied directly to photography. This unique life experience gives me a perspective that I believe translates into beautiful imagery.