Abby O’Melia, a Bayville native, became interested in photography while enrolled in the Design and Visual Communications program at Ocean County Vocational Technical School. Through hands-on coursework and real-world assignments, she gained early experience using professional tools and applying creative skills in practical settings. That interest, along with the training and education she received at OCVTS propelled her to launch a budding photography business.
A recent 2025 graduate, O’Melia said her teachers played a key role in helping her refine her photography and design skills by providing individualized feedback and opportunities that matched her creative style. She was regularly encouraged to photograph school events and complete assignments focused on editing, composition and visual design.
“My teachers always brought me to school events to take pictures and gave me extra assignments that worked better with my style of editing or designing,” said O’Melia. “They made sure I knew what was wrong with a photo that I took so I learned from it, and they showed me how to use my own camera even though the school used different ones.”
In addition to building technical skills, O’Melia said the program helped her grow personally. She said she was a natural introvert, but was encouraged to communicate with teachers, collaborate with peers and take initiative in seeking out creative opportunities.
“The school helped me get out of my comfort zone,” she said. “I had to go to different classes and ask for photo shoots and suggestions for shirt designs. My teachers knew I’d be able to break out of my shell, and they kept pushing me until it worked.”
“Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone,” O’Melia said. “You may say you have a ‘niche,’ but it’s better to have skills in multiple types of photography because it allows you to gain more clientele.”
Today, O’Melia is focused on building her photography portfolio by taking on client work, including photographing small events as she continues to gain experience.Her current goal is to grow her presence on social media and share her work more widely to reach new clients.
While her photography primarily focuses on automotive subjects, she remains open to exploring other areas of photography as her career develops.
“I’m trying to keep my Instagram automotive based because that’s something I’ve learned about myself,” O’Melia said. “I enjoy going out and seeing so many different builds that people have come up with for their cars and highlighting it for them in my posts.”
O’Melia’s experience shows how hands-on instruction by industry professionals and mentorship can support students as they build skills, confidence, and direction early in their careers.
