Photography Blog
Building the Hive: Why Jay Cupcake Joined Twin Cities Quorum
Jay Cupcake Photography joins Twin Cities Quorum! Discover how this award-winning St. Paul photographer brings "Icon" branding to the MN LGBTQ+ business community.
Jay Cupcake Photography | Now Serving St. Paul & Minneapolis
After half a decade of capturing the most vibrant personalities in the Mountain West, Jay Cupcake Photography has officially landed in St. Paul, Minnesota. As a recognized 40 Under 40 Business Leader and a DIVA Award winner, I bring a seasoned editorial eye and a passion for authentic connection to the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Hello, Minnesota! A New Chapter and New Lenses in the Land of Lakes (and Snow!)
Well, hello there, Minnesota! After much anticipation, we've officially packed bags, gear, and our fluffiest winter coats, and made the exciting move to Saint Paul! I'm thrilled to announce that our little family are now proud residents of the Twin Cities and Jay Cupcake Photography is immediately available for event and portrait photography throughout the Saint Paul and Minneapolis metro areas.
Taking Over the Denver Art Museum: Colorado LGBTQ+ Bar Association & Bradley University
What a weekend in Denver! There is something special about working in a space where "art" is built into the very walls. This past week, I had the pleasure of "taking over" the event spaces at the Denver Art Museum, and the energy was absolutely electric..
Out, Loud, and Proud: My Solo Debut at the Monica Horn Gallery
Happy Pride, everyone!
I am beyond thrilled to share some big news: My very first solo show is officially hanging at the Monica Horn Gallery within the Vintage Theatre in Aurora, Colorado!
‘The Bawdy Politik’ Heads to Louisville: 31st National Juried Photography Show
I am incredibly honored to announce that my collage piece, ‘The Bawdy Politik,’ has been selected for the Louisville Art Association’s 31st National Juried Photography Show & Sale!
A Sparkling Milestone: Best Photographer Nomination and WIN!
From the 6th Annual Colorado DIVA nomination to the big win! Celebrate Jay Cupcake’s victory as the 2025 Best Photographer. Explore the journey of capturing 'Hidden Treasures' and the drag community through an award-winning lens.
‘The Bawdy Politik’: Joining "Photography Unbound" at Niza Knoll Gallery
Jay Cupcake’s 'The Bawdy Politik' selected for the Photography Unbound juried exhibition at Niza Knoll Gallery. Part of Denver’s 2025 Month of Photography in the Santa Fe Art District.
Perspectives of the High Desert: Showing at D’Art Gallery
I am thrilled to announce that my work has been selected for "Verdant Southwest: 22 Perspectives," a premier group exhibition hosted by Open Studios. This show brings together a curated group of 22 artists from across Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona to share their unique visions of our stunning corner of the world.
A Study in Detail: Showing "Intricacy" at The Lab on Santa Fe
I am thrilled to announce that I have four pieces currently hanging at The Lab on Santa Fe as part of their latest curated exhibition, "INTRICACY." Curated by Josh Berkowitz, this show brings together a group of artists whose work demands a closer look. For this particular exhibit, I wanted to showcase the breadth of my portfolio, so I’ve included three of my digital collages alongside one traditional photograph.
The Art of the Layer The theme of "Intricacy" provided the perfect opportunity to display my collage work. These pieces are built through hundreds of digital layers, fine-tuned to create a singular, surreal vision. Seeing them printed and hung alongside the work of other talented local artists like Raven Rohrig and Celeste Hodges really highlights the "intricate" conversations happening between different mediums.
Exploring Local Excellence: ‘Springtime’ at the 40th Best of Colorado Show
I am so proud to announce that my digital collage, "Springtime," was selected for the 40th Annual Best of Colorado at the Depot Show! Hosted by the Littleton Fine Arts Guild, this milestone exhibition is a curated celebration of the incredible creative talent found right here in our state.
Literacy and Art: Returning to Memento Mori Gallery
Returning to Memento Mori Gallery & Tattoo for their literary-themed show was the perfect excuse to dive back into the world of digital storytelling. My featured piece for this exhibition stars the incomparable Denver drag queen Lulu Krystals.
Bridging Styles: "The Space Between" at The Lab on Santa Fe
I am thrilled to announce that two of my works were selected for the group exhibition "The Space Between" at The Lab on Santa Fe. This show was a unique opportunity for me to exhibit two very different sides of my creative process side-by-side: my digital collage work and my portrait photography.
Two for Two: Celebrating My Second DIVA Nomination!
It is officially awards season in the Colorado drag and variety community, and I am incredibly honored to share that for the second year in a row, I have been nominated for Best Photographer at the 5th Annual DIVA Awards!
Entering the Dark Fantastic: Greetings from Krampus!
I am incredibly excited to announce that I’ll be making my debut at Memento Mori Gallery & Tattoo for their upcoming group show, "Greetings From Krampus! Vol. 6." This gallery is a staple of the 40 West Arts District in Lakewood, and I couldn't think of a better venue to showcase a piece that leans into the darker, more theatrical side of my portfolio.
Showing at Lincoln Gallery’s 2023 National Photography Show
I am incredibly excited to announce that one of my portraits has been selected for the 2023 National Photography Show at the Lincoln Gallery in Loveland, Colorado!
Out of a highly competitive pool of entries from across the country, my portrait of the brilliant Denver drag queen Anna Staysha was chosen to be part of this prestigious exhibition. Titled "Portrait of Anna 1," this piece captures the poise, glamour, and artistry that Anna brings to every performance.
Spot On: Taking the Stage at D’Art Gallery
I am incredibly excited to share that my work has been selected for "Spot On 4," a national juried exhibition hosted by D’Art Gallery in Denver. This show is a celebration of diverse artistic voices, and seeing my piece featured in the upper right corner of the official exhibition flyer is a truly proud moment.
Meet Jay Cupcake: My Featured Interview with Canvas Rebel
I am so excited to share that I was recently interviewed by Canvas Rebel for their "Stories & Insights" series! This was a wonderful opportunity to step out from behind the camera and share some of the personal stories and lessons I’ve learned throughout my career as a photographer and digital collage artist.
State Pride: The 39th Annual Best of Colorado at The Depot
I am incredibly honored to announce that one of my digital collages was selected for the 39th Annual Best of Colorado Show at The Depot Art Gallery. Hosted by the Littleton Fine Arts Guild, this exhibition is one of the most anticipated events of the year, showcasing the very best creative talent from across the state.
A Milestone Selection: The 40th Annual All Colorado Art Show
I am incredibly proud to share that my digital collage work was selected for the 40th Annual All Colorado Art Show! Hosted at the prestigious Curtis Center for the Arts, this exhibition is a cornerstone of the Colorado summer arts calendar.