mary williams photography + creative work
Creativity has been my lifelong companion, guiding me through a diverse array of artistic pursuits—from fine art to digital design, and everything in between. Yet, with so many avenues to explore, my greatest challenge has always been choosing which one to pursue.
Photography and videography have been passions of mine since my high school days. I used to set up photoshoots with my friends and make YouTube vlogs to hone my camera and editing skills. The more I worked at it, the more my confidence grew, fueled by the joy of capturing moments through my lens. That passion ultimately led me to sports media.
Surprisingly, I didn't grow up playing sports. Instead, I took art classes, danced, and was always quite introverted. As an adult, however, I've developed a deep passion for basketball and found camaraderie among like-minded fans. I'm particularly drawn to the creative narratives that surround the game.
For me, the allure of sports media lies in its storytelling, its flair, and its artistry. It's about documenting the drama of every game and the unique journeys of each player. Being behind the lens allows me to capture history in the making.
In 2024, I landed my first photography gig at D’Angelo Russell’s basketball camp in Louisville, Kentucky. I had the opportunity to get to know and learn from other creatives, and that experience solidified that this was the right path for me. Over the following year, I dedicated myself to improving my craft, shooting high school sports for my alma mater. When I returned to Camp DLo the next summer, I could see a dramatic improvement in my work. Shortly afterward, I applied to the Los Angeles Lakers internship program. To my surprise, I was offered the photography internship for the 25-26 season. From then on, it was a whirlwind. Having the opportunity to gain real NBA experience was invaluable, and I learned more than I could have imagined. I had countless “dream come true” moments and experiences, and I’m so grateful for my time spent there.
Now that the season is over, I'm doing freelance work. Whether its sports, portraits, content for businesses, or event photography, no door is closed off to me at the moment! I'm based in Northern California but am very open to traveling for projects. I'm a dedicated, hardworking creative who thrives on challenges and is always striving to improve. I believe I would be a valuable addition to any team.