Meet the DC-based gay photographer shining a light on the beauty of the LGBTQ+ community
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
Originally from New York, Billy Maloy is a survivor of the '80s club scene. He is currently working as a celebrity hairstylist, photographer, and producer in Silver Spring, Maryland just outside of Washington, DC. Billy has his own hair studio and is frequently asked to be on local TV to promote seasonal styles. Involved in many creative projects, Billy is currently writing and producing horror shorts for an anthology film with other LGBTQ+ filmmakers.
Billy's work as a photographer can convey intense intimacy with his subjects, even in just a single frame. It's clear to see that the people he works with trust his vision to make them look extra fabulous, and his use of controlled light with pops of color raises the bar on creating a strong visual standard.
Scroll through to learn more about Billy and to see more of his work! You can also follow Billy on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Do you know of an LGBTQ+ photographer or artist who deserves more spotlight? Let us know by emailing photoassistant@equalpride.com.
Tell us about your journey to becoming a photographer.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
I started taking pictures of friends in high school. People kept telling me I had a "good eye," so I got a camera and fell in love with it.
How does your queer identity shape the way you see/portray your subjects?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
I think it has everything to do with it. Most of my models are LGBTQ+ and I really try to let them be fully themselves in each photo.
What story do you hope to tell the world with your art?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
That beauty is everywhere and in everyone.
Are there specific themes you try to consistently incorporate in your work?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
Yes. In my head, there's always a song or artist that it's based on. My entire fantasy series is based on Stevie Nicks' songs. I'm also heavily influenced by androgynous looks.
How do you plan a concept and where do you find inspiration?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
It's seriously whatever catches my eye. Images from my childhood, song lyrics. Everywhere.
We often focus on LGBTQ+ people being the subject of art, but not the artists. Can you talk about the importance of having LGBTQ+ artists behind the camera?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
We've always shaped art, pop culture, and creativity. It's necessary to have passion, rebellion, and talent all mixed in, to show the rest of the world how bland they would be without us sculpting the zeitgeist of it all.
How does being based in Washington, DC impact your work?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
It's amazing. I know locations, friends. I can call any number of people to get a project done in a day.
What are you working on next?
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
Another fantasy photo series and working on a LGBTQ+ horror anthology film with a friend. It's very exciting!
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
Courtesy of Billy Maloy
For more of Billy's work, follow him on Instagram, @billymaloyphotography.
