We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jonathan Chumley. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Jonathan, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Photography is more than a hobby or profession for me—it’s a profound passion that allows me to lose myself in the present moment while rediscovering my authentic self. When I’m behind the lens, time seems to dissolve, and the weight of everyday concerns lifts, leaving me in a state of pure focus and freedom. This creative pursuit transcends the pursuit of financial gain; it’s an outlet where stress dissipates, and my mind is wholly immersed in capturing the beauty and stories of the world around me.
The act of photographing—whether framing a fleeting moment, composing a scene, or exploring the interplay of light and shadow—grounds me in a way few other endeavors can. It’s a deeply personal and liberating experience.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jonathan Chumley, I’m 36 and based out of Galveston, Texas. Photography has been a passion of mine for over 15 years—it’s not just what I do, it’s a part of who I am. While I’ve shot many different styles over the years, my main focus right now is sports, fitness, and lifestyle photography. I’ve been fortunate to work with professional athletes like Mike Evans, Zyon McCollum, Tristan McCollum, and D’Onta Foreman, as well as gyms such as Believe HTX, where I capture the hard work and dedication that fuels their communities.
Beyond athletics, I collaborate with clothing brands to create dynamic merchandise content, including my ongoing work with Salt Water Soul. For me, photography is about more than images—it’s about telling a story, highlighting authenticity, and freezing moments of passion, grit, and personality in time. I feel truly blessed for the opportunities I’ve had and excited for what’s still ahead.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work is my uncle, who I call my dad because he raised me. He took me in when I was young and shaped me into who I am today. He always taught me to be a hard worker, never a quitter, and to pursue what I love. His biggest lesson was to chase my dreams, not just money, and that guidance has stuck with me ever since.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there have definitely been times I’ve thought about giving up. While I truly love photography and it’s my passion, it can be tough at times. I do a lot of free work for kids in our community and at local schools, and while that brings me joy, photography is an expensive hobby. Equipment wears out, things break, and new gear is always needed—but when you’re doing so much free work, it doesn’t exactly pay for itself. Financially, it can be a challenge to keep going. Still, I always push forward and remind myself why I started: to give back and help people through my photography. That’s what keeps me grounded and motivated.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I would say someone I admire for their character rather than their power is my good friend, Eric Trevino, owner of Believe HTX. I was fortunate to meet him through a clothing brand collaboration, and from the very beginning, he struck me as a genuine and down-to-earth person. Despite being blessed with success and wealth, he treats everyone with the same respect and kindness. My son even looks up to him because of the type of heart he has. He’s not just a role model, but also one of my best friends, and I truly admire him for the way he carries himself.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story I hope people tell about me when I’m gone is that I had a good heart and was always willing to help anyone I could. That I was a loyal and genuine friend who stood by the people I cared about. I hope they remember that I loved what I did, that my passion showed through my work, and that the content I created over the years left an impact. More than anything, I want to be remembered as someone who gave back, lifted others up, and left behind memories filled with love, laughter, and inspiration.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Chumley_fitness_photography
- Facebook: Chumley fitness photography
