Maria Grady
Photographer
Earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Carleton College in Northfield, Minn. and two years course work towards a master’s degree in environmental studies at University of Wisconsin
Two years course work toward a bachelor’s degree in photography at Oakland Community College in Royal Oak, Mich.
Extensive sales background selling high tech and financial solutions to multiple industries including automotive, retail, distribution and more
First race was the F1 in Detroit where she later volunteered with On-Track services where she met motorsports photographers and realized it was a career she may be interested in
Began professional photography career as a photographer for Shell Motorsports with Team Rahal
Extensive background in motor sports photography with work done for multiple manufacturers, multiple sponsors while associated with LAT Photographic for more than a decade
Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Photographer
Loves animals, art and tennis
What woman has inspired you most, besides your mom?
Woman who most inspired me is my Godmother. She became a teacher after many years working as a hair stylist and running multiple businesses with my Godfather. She taught me a love for reading and exploring the world which I carry on today.
What was your favorite class in school and why?
Favorite class in school was anything science related (my bachelor’s degree is in Biology) and art classes. My earliest memory of a career choice was wanting to be an artist or a nurse.
What drew you to your career?
I always loved things that moved fast. As a kid, I was drawn to roller coasters and fast cars. My first visit to a racetrack was an F1 race in Downtown Detroit where my employer entertained guests. I started meeting photographers who covered motorsports and realized that it was something that I could do. Another passion of mine as a child was playing with cameras. I went on to take photography courses while continuing to volunteer with On-Track Services and the rest is history.