Meet Angelia Malbrew | Luxury Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Angelia Malbrew and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angelia, how do you think about risk?
For me, risk has been a constant companion in both my life and my career. But I don’t look at risk the way most people do. I see it as an invitation—an opportunity to bet on myself, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

The truth is, my entire career has been built on risks. Walking away from a comfortable career to pursue photography full-time was a major risk. And now, evolving my brand into a more exclusive, luxury experience—and even expanding into consulting—is another level of risk that required faith, courage, and clarity.

I’ve learned that the bigger the vision, the bigger the leap. But every time I’ve leaned into risk, it’s unlocked new opportunities, new relationships, and new levels of success that playing it safe would have never provided.

Risk, to me, isn’t reckless. It’s calculated. It’s rooted in trusting the calling on my life, trusting my skills, and trusting that the people who are meant to work with me will always find me.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the owner of Angelia Malbrew Photography, where I specialize in providing a luxury portrait experience designed for high-achieving women, entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders. What sets my brand apart is that it’s never been just about pretty pictures. It’s about helping women see themselves the way the world should see them—powerful, accomplished, confident, and elevated.

I’ve spent years refining this brand into something intentional and deeply transformational. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all photoshoot. It’s a curated experience for women who are ready to elevate not just their image, but their presence and how they show up in the world.

Where I am today didn’t come easy. Like most entrepreneurs, I faced moments of burnout, financial challenges, and seasons where I questioned if I could really sustain this at the level I envisioned. I had to learn how to stop treating my business like a side hustle and start running it like the premium brand it is.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that your brand is your currency. The way you show up matters. Your image, your presence, your confidence—it all communicates something long before you ever say a word. That realization is actually what led me to expand beyond photography and into consulting. I realized I wasn’t just helping women look the part—I was helping them become the part. And now, through my consulting company, I help leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives build brands that align with their legacy, their leadership, and their next level.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s this: I’m not in the business of selling photos. I’m in the business of transformation. Whether I’m behind the camera or behind the strategy, my purpose is to help people step into the most powerful version of themselves. My story is proof that you can redefine yourself, elevate your brand, and walk in a room knowing exactly who you are and what you represent.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, we’d curate a week that’s all about luxury, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

We’d start with a stay at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort or The Phoenician—both offer stunning views, privacy, and the kind of peaceful energy that sets the tone for the trip.

Brunch is always the first order of business. Brunch & Sip is an absolute favorite—the vibe is beautiful, the energy is great, and the food never misses. For coffee and conversation, Culture Coffee is my go-to spot with a cozy, stylish atmosphere.

Of course, no trip is complete without a luxury portrait experience—with me, of course. Whether we shoot in one of my favorite modern studios or head to the desert for those iconic Arizona backdrops, my goal is always the same: to help every woman leave feeling seen, elevated, and confident. This isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s a transformation experience.

Shopping is always on the list. Scottsdale Fashion Square’s luxury wing is a must—Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Bottega. But I also love making time to check out local boutiques and creative spaces for something unique and meaningful.

For lunch, we’d enjoy the waterfront views at Olive & Ivy, where the seafood and plant-forward dishes are always fresh and perfectly prepared. Or we might head to Culinary Dropout for a fun, laid-back vibe with a menu that never disappoints.

Dinner is always an experience. Elements at Sanctuary is a personal favorite—the sunset views over Camelback Mountain are absolutely breathtaking, and their menu always offers incredible seafood and vegetable-forward dishes. I also love Buck & Rider for the freshest oysters and a coastal-inspired menu. If we want to lean into something truly stunning, we’ll head to The Global Ambassador for dinner or late-night bites and end the evening on their rooftop. The views, the ambiance—it’s unmatched.

And when it’s time for something sweet, my sister’s business, Cravablez by Teri, always comes through. Her custom dessert boxes are not only gorgeous but absolutely delicious—the perfect way to end the day.

For a soulful meal or weekend brunch, Larder + Delta and SugarJam The Southern Kitchen are always part of the itinerary—both offer incredible flavor, beautiful energy, and a dining experience that feels like comfort elevated.

The week would be filled with meaningful conversations, incredible food, beautiful spaces, and experiences that leave you feeling recharged, refreshed, and elevated. That’s how we do Arizona the elevated way—with a little bit of luxury, a whole lot of intention, and memories captured by yours truly.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Without a doubt, my journey is not one I’ve walked alone. I have to first give credit to my faith. God has been the foundation for every risk, every pivot, every elevation. There were so many moments where the next step wasn’t clear—but trusting Him always led me exactly where I was supposed to be.

I also have to shout out the incredible women who have trusted me over the years—not just as their photographer, but as someone who helps them step into their power, their confidence, and their brand. Their trust continues to inspire the evolution of my business.

And I can’t answer this question without mentioning Sue Bryce. Watching how she built her brand, her community, and her impact showed me what was possible—not just as an artist, but as a businesswoman. Her mentorship, both directly and indirectly, was pivotal in shaping how I run my business today.

Lastly, I’m grateful for the mentors, coaches, and quiet supporters behind the scenes—those who poured wisdom into me and those whose example reminded me that I could build something extraordinary on my own terms.

Website: https://www.AngeliaMalbrewPhotography.com

Instagram: @angeliamalbrewphotography

Linkedin: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/angeliamalbrew

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angeliamalbrewphotography

Youtube: @angeliamalbrewphotography

Other: Podcast-
https://open.spotify.com/show/6HDG1FF3AkfroGBjzRI0Fd?si=PKzWWU1RSQWQfurNRh2d6w

Image Credits
Angelia Malbrew Photography