Point Park University Experience Propels Alumnus Tony Moux to Develop Successful Business in Headshot Photography Alumni Profile
Meet Tony Moux '13
- Job Title & Employer
- Photographer, Headshots by Tony Moux
- Major/Program
- Theatre Arts
- Hometown
- Greensburg, Pa.
- High School
- Hempfield Area High School
- Now Living In
- Los Angeles, Calif.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Baking, people watching and discussing feelings with cups of coffee
"Since graduating, I have been published nationally in editorial magazines, photographed and creatively directed campaigns for brands like Dermalogica, PPG Paints and People Magazine. I've had so many opportunities that I was able to build from my college experience."
Why did you choose Point Park University?
The University held an amazing reputation. Beyond its location in Downtown Pittsburgh, I knew it would provide me with the training and network to build any opportunity I envisioned. With the campus perfectly placed in the city, I had access to theaters, art galleries, coffee shops and restaurants. After visiting Point Park, I had a good feeling and I’m glad I followed it.
Highlight your professional experiences since graduating from Point Park.
I’ve developed a successful business in headshot photography. I developed it in 2011 during my studies and now have photographed thousands of actors. I was able to build a network through my major and continue to build it after college. This has enabled me to move to Los Angeles.
Since graduating, I have been published nationally in editorial magazines, photographed and creatively directed campaigns for brands like Dermalogica, PPG Paints and People Magazine. I've had so many opportunities that I was able to build from my college experience.
Tell us more about your photography business and what led you to pursue that path.
Initially I pursued theatre because it felt like home. It is a place where anyone’s story can shine. When I realized I could create that sense of home through photography it became a mission to learn as much as I could. I wanted to invite and capture the ambition and vulnerability that every person embodies. Even if they don’t see it, my camera is able to find it.
People are my passion and my work centers around portraiture work. Although my experience has reached commercial and editorial corners, I’ve learned that photography allows me to be present and just make beautiful work.
Since moving to Los Angeles, I have been able to work with huge brands and noted celebrities. Standout names include Darren Criss, Jackie Aina, Dan Levy and beyond that, I have worked with big content creators and national brands. It’s a beautiful and arduous experience overall.
What’s it like working with so many Point Park alumni and students?
It is amazing. I’m so proud of every alumni that comes from Point Park. To see the growth and transformations they all continue to develop is humbling. Their passion and ambition continues to grow, and it’s such an honor to experience and photograph it. Especially working with someone when they’re a freshman and then as a senior — it is so cool to see that Point Park transformation.
In what ways did Point Park prepare you for your career?
Point Park shaped and reframed the way I view the world. It gave me real life experiences and the space to learn and be human. The four years gave me concrete hard skills and the opportunity to create a network in professional theater.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
Create, create, create. Build it, and I promise they will come. Don’t worry if it’s good or not, it doesn’t matter! You have the space and time to become whatever you want. Any opportunity you want, start developing it now.
We have so many tools and resources available to us. We can learn any skill and apply that to our industry. Continue to foster connections and keep an active relationship with your ambition, and make the space for others, too.
In my four years of Point Park, I created Pinnacle Productions. The reason I made it was simple: I wanted my friends to direct something. I was surprised to find out a year ago that it still exists! I’m so proud to know that mission continues and it's a testament to building the space, not just for yourself, but for the community. Creating opportunities will create opportunity.
And lastly, be kind and gracious to yourself. We hold ourselves to huge expectations. You have time! I promise! Give yourself the space to experience the journey. There will be a time to enjoy the production.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If anyone is curious, my last name is pronounced “moe”. Frankly it's the first question everyone always asks!
Connect with Tony Moux '13
More About: Theatre Alumni, alumni, Downtown Pittsburgh, success story, theatre, Conservatory of Performing Arts, Conservatory Alumni, Hempfield Area High School, theatre arts