On a quiet afternoon in Palos Hills, Angel Malone is in her element — adjusting the lighting, offering gentle guidance to a toddler posing for a milestone birthday portrait. Behind the camera, she sees more than just an image; she sees a memory in the making.
As the owner of Photography by Angel, Malone has spent more than 25 years turning fleeting moments into cherished keepsakes, building a reputation as one of the most sought-after photographers in the area.
Malone’s passion for photography began early.
She worked for several photography studios, learning the craft from experienced mentors and mastering the art of portrait, wedding, and event photography. But she always dreamed of opening her own studio, one where she could bring her creative vision to life and connect with clients on a personal level. In 2010, after 14 years of dedication and hard work, that dream became a reality when she opened Photography by Angel in Palos Hills.
“Over the past 15 years, my studio has grown and evolved,” Malone said. “Now, I have a great team of photographers working with me, and we offer a wide variety of photography services.”
Located at 10708 S. Roberts Road, her studio provides both in-studio and on-location photography, specializing in everything from newborn portraits to wedding day storytelling. Of all the types of photography she offers, capturing the joy and innocence of children remains her favorite.
“I love photographing almost anything, but if I had to choose, I’d say children of all ages, including newborns,” she said. “It’s so rewarding to know that years from now, these photos will bring a smile to my clients’ faces and happiness to their hearts.”
Even with decades of experience, Malone admits that photographing major events, especially weddings, still comes with a bit of nervous anticipation.
“As wedding photographers, we have the huge responsibility of capturing the most important moments of the day,” she said. “Even after 25-plus years, I’d be lying if I said I never got nervous before a big event. But I think that little bit of nervousness is a sign of passion; it means you care about the work you’re producing and want to give every client the best experience possible.”
Malone’s commitment to her clients extends beyond photography sessions.
As a longtime member of the Palos Area Chamber of Commerce, the Hills Chamber of Commerce, and the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce, she is deeply involved in the local business community. She is also one of the founding members of the Palos Area Business Association, a free networking group that helps local businesses connect and grow.
“The community support in Palos Hills has always been incredible,” she said. “We have a great network of people who support each other through referrals, sharing social media posts, and promoting each other’s events.”
One way she gives back is by hosting special events at her studio, such as themed photo sessions and community gatherings. For Valentine’s Day, she is offered a kids’ photo and craft event, where children were able to receive a take-home Valentine’s photo and participate in a fun craft activity.
“I love hosting these events because they give people an opportunity to get to know us on a more personal level,” she said. “For those who may want to ‘check us out’ before trusting us with their special moments, it’s a great way to see the studio and meet our team.”
Malone also enjoys collaborating with local businesses to create unique photography experiences. She has partnered with Palos Heights businesses, including Tropical Sno for “Scoops and Smiles” sessions and Genetti’s Bistro for a “Mommy & Me Tea Time” event.
In March, she is teaming up with Chroma Beauty Salon in Palos Hills to offer a Teen Mini Event, where teens can get a mini hair and makeup session followed by a mini photo shoot for just $10.
Beyond these creative partnerships, Photography by Angel is also the official photographer for Moraine Valley’s nursing graduates, Little Lights Academy Preschool, and other local schools.
As photography continues to evolve, Malone stays ahead of the latest trends by attending workshops and experimenting with new techniques. But no matter how much the industry changes, her mission remains the same: to capture moments that will last a lifetime.
“As time passes, our memories naturally fade, but pictures bring us back to those moments,” she said. “That’s what I love most about what I do.”
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