
Hey, I’m Alison!
I’ve spent the last 20 years taking magical pictures. But I’ve ALSO spent the last 20 years connecting with real people, who have stories to tell. Whether those stories are about the growth of their family, coming into themselves, or building an amazing business that does amazing things.
You deserve to have images that represent who you are, and what makes you… you. And that’s my favorite part of what I do. Capturing truth, love, devotion, passion – and the unique moments and turning points in our experiences as humans. And it’s an honor every time someone chooses me to document those moments.
My work is about telling stories
Why do I love photography?
40 years ago my life changed in a moment but has been felt for an eternity. My beloved brother Shaun died in my mothers arms after a horrible accident in front of our home. This fraction of a second has defined my life more than any other.
But the strangest thing is that worst experience is followed by a life full of two humans I would never have met. My wonderful little Sister and little Brother were brought into this family (one via birth and one via adoption) as a way to heal and better understand things beyond words or reason. I would not have the life I have today without the pain and loss of another. I hold them both close to my heart because they are both so beautiful and unique.
So, hold your family (by blood and by choice) close. Tell them you love them more times than you think is necessary, because it is ALWAYS necessary. You never regret kindness, love and connection even if it leads to pain.

This experience is exactly why I became an artist, and photographer. There is nothing more important to me than freezing time. It feels like the only form of control I have (if there is such a thing). I love my camera as much as I love my family and I spend time creating images because holding onto something as fleeting as a moment feels like true power and grace rolled into a miracle.

I’ve done the work.
I hold a BFA and an MFA in Photography and Lens based media. I’ve spent my my entire education centered around, developing the art of storytelling. When it comes to being a Photographer so much more goes into the education than anyone really realizes.
The act of taking the picture is simple and that’s why many people can just learn it online, but the art of telling a story of understanding the history of image making, and having a real passion to communicate visually is a choice that absolutely requires a refined education to be effective. So I’ve spent most of my life refining that skill, so that I can tell YOUR stories, beautifully.
Ready to Learn?
I'm a photographer at heart, but I'm also a teacher, not just in my everyday life, but professionally. And it's important to me that I contribute to our community through teaching and training as well as through my art!
Capturing the Perfect Senior Portrait: Tips for Minnesota Seniors
I know you may be nervous; photography is an exchange that requires a lot of trust and vulnerability. Even after 20 years in the business, I don’t like having my photo taken! Moving from taking selfies on your phone to having a stranger photograph you can feel like giving up creative control. But senior portraits are all about YOU! They should document exactly who you are and what you love.
Newborn Photography in Minneapolis: A Heartwarming Session with Sloane and Her Family
As a specialized portrait photographer, I am often privileged to witness some of the most humble and profound moments in people's lives. Recently, I had the honor of photographing a newborn session with Sloane and her beautiful family. This session was not just about...
Empowering Women Through Song: Event Photos for the See Change Treble Choir
At Malone Portraits, we are passionate about supporting local groups that align with our values of diversity, community, and artistic expression. This year, we had the privilege of sharing our event photography services with the See Change Treble Choir Gala.
As Seen In:





Kind Words
“Ali easily and expertly brought my vision to life through her photos. Her ability to listen to my imaginative nonsense and bring those ramblings to life was perfect.”
– Amy K
– Marie V
“Ali is an incredible photographer with a deep understanding on how to actually capture the nuance of the person she’s photographing to make beautiful images. Not many can do this. She works harder than anyone I know in this line of work.”
– Kermit G


