Meet Malik Washington

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

Hi Malik, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
The value that matters most to me is authenticity. As a photographer, I’m passionate about capturing people and moments exactly as they are—real, genuine, and full of emotion. I never want my clients to feel like they have to fit into a mold or be something they’re not. I want them to feel comfortable, seen, and celebrated for who they are. Authenticity is also how I approach my business: being honest, staying true to my vision, and building trust with every person I work with. At the end of the day, I believe the most meaningful photos—and relationships—come from being real, because it’s those honest moments that people hold onto, that bring them joy, and that remind them of their worth.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Photography, for me, has always been about more than just taking pictures—it’s about telling stories, capturing emotions, and preserving moments that matter. I specialize in lifestyle, portrait, and event photography, and what sets my work apart is my focus on authenticity and connection. I don’t just want to create beautiful images; I want my clients to feel something when they look at them. Whether I’m shooting a quiet moment between a couple, the energy of a live event, or the pride in someone’s eyes as they achieve a milestone, I aim to capture the real, unscripted magic.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients. I’ve been fortunate to work with amazing organizations like the Denver Broncos and Vibrancy21, as well as countless individuals and families who’ve let me into their lives. Every collaboration pushes me to grow creatively and deepen my storytelling.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. Like many small business owners, I’ve faced my share of challenges—learning how to balance the creative side with the business side, navigating slow seasons, and overcoming self-doubt. There were times I wondered if I was cut out for this, but what kept me going was my love for the craft and the people who believed in me. I’ve learned to stay patient, stay curious, and keep showing up, even when things feel tough.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s that I care deeply about the people I work with. I don’t see my clients as transactions—I see them as collaborators, as humans with stories worth telling. My goal isn’t just to deliver photos, but to create an experience where people feel seen, valued, and celebrated. That’s what drives me, and that’s what I hope shines through in every image I create.

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 were visiting, I’d want to show them the best of Colorado—a perfect mix of nature, food, and fun. We’d kick off with brunch at *Snooze*, then explore the murals and art in *RiNo*. We’d hit some breweries like *Our Mutual Friend* before dinner at *Fritangas* for amazing Mexican food.

We’d spend a day in *Estes Park* hiking *Rocky Mountain National Park*, followed by dinner at *The Stanley Hotel*. Midweek, we’d catch a Rockies game at *Coors Field*, then head to *ViewHouse* for dinner and drinks. I’d also take them to *Red Rocks Amphitheatre* to hike or, if we’re lucky, catch a concert.

We’d grab dinner at *Avanti Food & Beverage* for the variety and rooftop views, and plan a special night at *Root Down* or *The Wolf’s Tailor*. We’d explore *Union Station* and also visit *Garden of the Gods* in Colorado Springs. If they’re up for it, we’d take a road trip to *Great Sand Dunes National Park* for sandboarding and epic photos.

Throughout the week, I’d show them the creative, welcoming spirit of Colorado—a trip full of adventure, great food, and unforgettable memories.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely—I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who’ve believed in me and supported me every step of the way. First and foremost, I want to shout out my wife, Sharon. She’s been my biggest cheerleader, my sounding board, and my steady support through every challenge and every win. Her love and encouragement have kept me grounded and motivated, and I couldn’t do this without her. I also want to thank my family and friends who pushed me to chase this dream, even when it felt scary. I’m grateful to the creative community here in Colorado, and I’ve been lucky to collaborate with incredible organizations like the Denver Broncos and Vibrancy21—opportunities that challenged me, inspired me, and helped me grow. And of course, to every client who has trusted me to capture their moments: your trust and stories have shaped me, and I’m honored to be part of your journey. I’m so thankful for every person who’s poured love, guidance, and belief into me along the way.

Website: https://smoothsnapshots.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_smoothsnapshots_/

Twitter: https://x.com/SmoothSnapshots

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071719620600

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/smooth-snapshots-aurora

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@smoothsnapshots1

Image Credits
Image Credits: Malik Washington, Owner of Smooth Snapshots