What I do
David and Ally McKay started McKay Photography Academy and Tours in 2011 after years of being asked by clients to help them learn photography. Having traveled the world photographing as well as having taught on some of the largest stages in the photographic industry, the McKay’s do not only have a passion for photography and travel, but for people.
Currently, they have taught over 12,000 people, traveled personally to 45 countries, 7 continents, and led hundreds of people on photographic tours both in the US and internationally!
The McKay’s and their team, hold their 4 main ingredients/values of Photography, Travel, Friendship, and Adventure at the core of all they do. It is the MPA philosophy that anyone can love and learn photography, and should see and experience the world!
Whether attending a class in their Sacramento Gallery and Classroom or traveling to an incredible location around the world, you will find learning photography with MPA to be both fun and educational, full of passion and inspiration, and a place to meet other like-minded people!
About Me
David is a co-founder of McKay Photography Academy and McKay Photography Inc. He has been a professional photographer for over 30 years starting his first photography studio at the age of 17.
David has received some of the highest photographic awards in the world including the prestigious Master of Photography, Photographic Craftsmen and Certified Professional Photographer degrees from Professional Photographers of America- the LEADING professional photography organization in the world. He has had several images awarded from PPA including “Loan Collection” images that are considered to be the best of the best in the professional photography industry.
Recently, David was one of only a handful in the world to receive a Platinum medal from Professional Photographers of America for his achievements in image competition. He was also a member of Team USA for 2024 in the World Photographic Cup
Having taught on some of the largest stages in the industry, to thousands of people, both professional photographers, and amateurs alike, he has a passion for photography and teaching. He believes just being a great photographer does not make you a great teacher and that the ingredients of both emotion and skill must be shared and taught. David shares his love and enthusiasm wherever he goes and many of you can attest to this.
You may also know David from his #1 International Best Selling photography book series, “Photography Demystified”. Each of his 4 books in the series has shot to #1.
