Artist captured ‘story in pictures’

Local photographer was serious about portraits, business.

For Denise Gray, taking a photograph wasn’t as easy as whipping out a cellphone. As a professional photographer, Ms. Gray knew her picture would be more than just a reflection of the person she photographed, so she took great pains to make sure everything was just right.

“When I look back at all of the portraits she took of me, they do tell a story,” said Veda Brown, a friend and client. “And not only of that day, but over the years, marking milestones in my life, and she was able to capture that story in pictures.”

In the ’80s, the Chicago native moved to Atlanta to study photography at the former Southeastern Center for the Arts, a twoyear school that trained students for careers in graphic arts and photography.

“She knew in high school that photography was what she wanted to do,” said Jeanette Coleman, a sister who lives in North Platte, Neb. “And she found a way to make it her career.”

Denise Marie Kight Gray of Union City died April 22 from complications brought on by a blood clot, friends said. She was 54. A funeral service will be noon Tuesday at Mount Nebo Baptist Church, Atlanta. Burial will follow at Westview Cemetery.

Though Ms. Gray divorced years ago, she kept using her married name because it was also her business name, friends and family said. And she was serious about her business.

“Denise was always full of joy and laughter when we got together as friends and as photographers talking shop about the challenges of being competitive as a photographer in today’s market place and the ever-changing trends,” said Catherine J. Alston, a friend and photographer. “Denise was always willing to share her time and talent with me on learning new photography techniques and sharing. We would sometimes talk candidly till 1 or 2 in the morning if necessary, always about photography.”

Ms. Gray didn’t have a permanent studio but specialized in location photography, including corporate headshots, event pictures and family portraits.

As a location photographer, Ms. Gray could turn almost anywhere into the perfect place for a shoot.

“She’s done portraits for me many times in my living room, and when I see the finished product, it doesn’t look like my living room at all,” Ms. Brown said. “She always made it look like it was a studio shoot.”

According to Ms. Gray’s website, her clients included the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Turner Broadcasting’s supplier diversity program, churches, civic groups and schools.

“Denise’s eyes captured the Best of Atlanta faces as portraits in business, politics, education, entertainment, events and more through her captivating photography,” Ms. Alston said. “Her art and style of photography enriched the lives of many and left an indelible mark into the hearts of many whom she photographed.”

Ms. Gray also is survived by another sister, Theresa Campbell of North Platte, Neb.; and two step-siblings.

FAMILY Denise Gray was a professional photographer who had a number of corporate clients across metro Atlanta.