Georgie Morley

Photographer Georgie Morley takes us around her hometown of Nantucket, shares what her perfect day on the island looks like, her coastal-inspired personal style, and her love of Pitbull.

Your documentary & editorial-style photography is so stunning! When did you know you wanted to be a photographer and how did you break into the industry?

Thank you! I had a good feeling I would do something in the creative field from a really young age. My parents, (mom, dad and step-dad) all studied art professionally and both my dads are working artists. Growing up my mom was also definitely a photo mom. We have boxes and boxes of photos and VHS recordings from our childhood. I also treasure the photos of my family that were taken before I came on the scene. All of that to say, art, photography, and the importance of recording memories is deeply ingrained. I started to teach myself to use a camera back in 2014 when I had started a food blog. I knew the importance of having great recipe photos and was given my first DSLR for Christmas a year prior.

From there I just kept being fascinated with the whole process of learning photography. A huge lightbulb moment happened when I started photographing people. In 2017 I photographed my first wedding for a friend who’s photographer had to cancel last minute. In a lot of ways I’m so grateful I was blissfully ignorant at the time otherwise I don’t think I ever would have said yes. That wedding was a turning point in a lot of ways. I hadn’t been to many weddings up until that point and this one was so authentic, fun and laid back. In a lot of ways that wedding was some of my most documentary work because I wouldn’t have known how to really direct the situation if I wanted to. I come back to the wedding often because I still feel like while I would have done plenty of things differently now it has a freshness I don’t want to forget.

I didn’t pursue photography for years after that because as much as I loved it, I had so much doubt and imposter syndrome. Finally in 2020 (I know) which also happened to be the year of my Saturn return, I went all in. I promised myself I would do 3 shoots a week no matter what, no matter if I was being paid or styling shoots myself. I truly think something in my energy and confidence completely shifted that year because that summer I started working with families, couples and brands on island almost every night.

What has been the proudest moment for you in your career?

Last fall, I photographed Jax Raynor & Hayden Quinn’s Galley Beach wedding and the images were published in Vogue Australia. That was a surreal experience. It was a beautiful week of events celebrating the couple, their families and what the island meant to them. I felt so honored to be trusted to document that week.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is casual and coastal-inspired with a thrifted flair. I definitely lean on neutrals and earth tones but still appreciate a pop of color for a little statement or mood boost.

What motivates you when you need an extra push?

On days that I don’t feel 100% my most vibrant energetic self, I really think about my clients and what they need. I think about how much work it takes to get ready to be in front of the camera and how vulnerable it feels to be photographed. I try to be the warm, calm energy that makes being photographed a really positive experience.

I also blast Pitbull in my car on the way to a shoot if I need some extra mojo.

Who are the women that inspire you?

I know this is going to sound so basic, but I’m a Swiftie through and through. I have endless respect for the relationship she has with her art and her fans. She’s built an entire universe for her art to be experienced in and goes above and beyond with her work every single time.

I’m also endlessly inspired and lifted up by the female entrepreneur community on Nantucket. It’s incredible to see so many women owned businesses out here and the spirit of collaboration and creativity is unmatched.

If you were a color, what color would you be and why?

While my favorite color is cherry red, I have always felt a connection to the color green. There’s something about green that’s a little fun, a little quirky, but also very connected to nature. I feel very aligned when I wear green.

You grew up on Nantucket and currently live there full time - what would your perfect day on the island look like?