Gary Poole: A Photographer’s Journey from Small-Town Studio to National Recognition
May 05, 2026 ● By Christy Bencko

Gary began his photography career in 1977 at the age of 21, opening a portrait and wedding studio in Douglas, Georgia. His passion for the technical aspects of photography led him to join Burrell Colour Lab in Crown Point, Indiana, in 1988. There, he specialized in production and quality control, the art of printing custom competition images for photographers nationwide and creating custom-printed large prints up to 40x60 inches. He later transitioned to roles in color analysis, quality inspection, and final approval.
In 1991, Gary moved with his family to Columbus, Georgia, where he managed the Custom Portrait and Wedding division at Garrett and Lane Color Lab. Over nearly two decades, he honed his expertise in production and quality management.
Seizing an opportunity in the digital era, Gary launched YourBestColor.com in 2010, an innovative editing service for professional photographers. His analog-based techniques in raw file editing and color correction gained the attention of a leading international editing service in Utah, which acquired his business in 2012. As part of the acquisition, Gary trained Photoshop artists using skills he developed during the film era, managed global client services, and represented the company at major U.S. and international trade shows as National Sales Director.
In 2021, Gary took on a new challenge, managing production and quality control for a high-end portrait studio and production lab in the New York City/ New Jersey area. After retiring from professional photography, Gary now offers Fine Art prints from his extensive collection, spanning over 50 years. These original images are available in various sizes and finishes for home or office decor. He also launched Gary Poole Masterpiece Photo Services, providing high-quality photo products to consumers. Whether your image is from a professional gallery or your smartphone (quality permitting), Gary ensures exceptional results through his network of top professional fulfillment companies.
Gary, a regional photographer known for his distinctive artistic style, is currently exhibiting a selection of his unique photographs in Uptown Columbus. His work is on display at FarmHer Mercantile on Broadway, where visitors can experience his creative perspective and visually compelling compositions. The showcase highlights Gary’s ability to capture striking imagery that reflects both his technical skill and his artistic vision, offering the community an opportunity to engage with locally produced art.
To explore more of Gary Poole’s work, insights, and upcoming projects, you can find him on his official platforms. His website offers a deeper look into his background, services, and creative portfolio, while his social presence gives a more personal, day‑to‑day window into his craft.
Official Website: https://www.garypoolemps.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gary.poole.186
Whether you're interested in his professional services, creative collaborations, or simply want to follow his latest updates, these links are the best way to stay connected.
