Picture This: Photographer Madison Cubbage’s Lens on Life

Rachel Huss
Sep 24
4 min read

Updated: Oct 1

Woman with bold makeup, holding a camera, wears floral-patterned top. Green background, calm expression, text "Canon" visible on lens. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

The universe is funny. I first met Madison (Madie) Cubbage when I asked a random stranger to take a picture of me at Sola Coffee. Little did we know that we'd remain friends for over half a decade, through moves, career pivots, and more. Back then, she was a music teacher. Today, she’s an established fashion photographer who travels the world for fashion weeks. She just wrapped her fourth New York Fashion Week. I spoke with her to learn more about her professional journey.

Collage of stylish people, colorful fashion, and reflective settings. Features vibrant pink, silver, blue hues, and dynamic poses. — Images courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

Photographer Madison Cubbage Interview

Models walk a runway in vibrant, flowing red and earth-toned outfits with bold patterns. The setting is a modern indoor space with rows of seated spectators. — Images courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

1. How did you get into photography?

I was gifted a basic Nikon 4000 with a kit lens camera in high school, but I only used it once. I took it to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, and posted a photo of myself with it, saying, “I’m a photographer” on Facebook.

Fast forward 10 years to me teaching music and looking for a new hobby. A new friend (aka Rachel Huss) brought it up to me that I should do it for a living, and I didn’t take it seriously at the time, but it stuck with me. Her statement really resonated with me. I was battling a lot of hard feelings and learning valuable life lessons as a young and inexperienced teacher, leading these talented and impressionable pre-K-8th graders. Teaching myself photography was an escape from that—and now I realize how impactful my teacher training has been in my career today. I wouldn’t be the photographer I am without that knowledge and training.

Lindsey Lohan in a grey coat poses confidently as photographers take pictures. The setting is busy, with flashes and a neutral backdrop. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

2. How has your photographic style evolved from the beginning of your career to today?

I feel that my style is now what I’ve always envisioned it to be, but I now have the skills and confidence to translate my ideas into a tangible form. I played around with all kinds of photo job options until I landed where I felt most aligned. I started with family holiday cards and graduation pictures. From creating studio birthdays and local events to album covers and small business product photos, to social media content creation for pages, and currently, what has happened so organically, runway/fashion campaigns.

Victoria Justice in a black sheer dress with feathered skirt, holding a black clutch. She smiles, standing in a room with white chairs. Sunglasses on head. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

3. How do you incorporate your mission and vision into your work?

Hmm, essentially, it has nothing to do with photography. Instead, it’s through me leading by example of living a life of authenticity and understanding. So, I know my purpose in the fashion industry is to show not only influential people but also the masses how to be their most authentic selves, and that being genuine is okay and a ticket to success in life; however, everyone may view that differently. We all hold something special and unique to add to the world, and we can’t access that if we’re too caught up in our heads, worrying about what people might think if we do something against the flow of what’s trending right now. I could go on forever on this, lol.

Bronx and Banco Model in a flowing red gown and headscarf walks a runway. Audience seated in background. Mood is elegant and dramatic with natural light. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

4. What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?

It's hard, and things always will seem that way. But honestly, if it were easy, everyone would be doing it. This is a cliché quote from a high school teacher of mine, but it's so true. As I've built myself up through my photo business over the past six years, it's become increasingly evident. The most important things are positive reframing and practicing daily gratitude. Through this, it makes the hard times more like a lesson you're growing from, which will help lift your spirits to keep going, creating, trying, and winning. Ask questions. Don't be afraid to fail— especially if you love the art. Practice daily because the more you create, the faster you'll grow into the artist you see in your mind. Do things for free because of love and friendship sometimes - keep healthy boundaries between work and rest.

Bronx and Banco Models in a fashion show wearing elegant outfits, one with brown stripes. Background is a dimly lit runway. Mood is stylish and modern. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

REST often. - Madison Cubbage

Alix Earle in a polka dot bikini poses confidently on a runway. Dimly lit background with blurred crowd. Mood is glamorous and lively. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

5. How do you help people feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera?

Everyone has a good angle. It takes a good photographer to see it. I show the client the photos during the shoot and describe the creative direction to ensure they're familiar with the vibe, whether they're new to taking professional pictures or working with me in general. I’ll have a mirror next to me in the studio, because we all know how to twist and adjust our bodies for a good mirror selfie. Why not help translate that into our studio session? And honestly, just getting to know you and talking about the tone you're passionate about. Plus a little music of choice to keep the vibes flowing

Suki Waterhouse in pink feathered coat smiles at photographers, surrounded by a crowd. Grey background, mood lively and bustling. — Image courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

6. What’s the next chapter?

Pfffft— who knows. I just entered this one. So, being present, enjoying every day and every moment, and having gratitude, spreading love, being kind, and making art, while living a life of ease and luxury in all aspects of my life.

Video courtesy of Madison Cubbage.

From teaching music to shooting fashion runways, photographer Madison Cubbage embodies the notion that creativity flourishes when it’s fueled by gratitude and joy.