Self-described “photo geek” Stephen Jones first picked up a camera—his dad’s Pentax SLR 35mm—in high school. He enjoyed the hobby, and decided to hone his photography skills at the University of Georgia, where he earned a BFA in photographic design and graduated cum laude. After more than a decade in the newspaper industry, an unexpected layoff gave Jones the jolt he needed to pursue his passion and open his own studio, Studio 331.

Today, the photographer distinguishes himself from the hundreds of others in his field by passing the rigorous exams and portfolio reviews necessary to earn the title of Certified Professional Photographer—an honor that only a small percentage of professional photographers hold. Jones specializes in weddings, where he shoots brides as they primp for their big day and newlyweds as they walk away from the altar amidst steaming showers of rice pilaf. His family shoots capture the emotional bonds between youngsters and their parents; his senior portraits, in contrast, showcase the confidence and potential of soon-to-be graduates.