Student shares inspirational family story behind his winning photo

With his mom receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in November 2019, Colton Fox knew he had to act fast.

An interdisciplinary studies student at Liberty University specializing in fine arts, business, and ministry, Colton surprised his mom with an early Christmas present shortly before she began chemotherapy: a trip to the Biltmore House in Asheville, N.C. This was the perfect spot for a photo.

Angel Fox, Colton’s mom, was in the process of finishing her newest book, “Waiting on When: Secrets to Finding God’s Comfort and Peace,” a Bible study and devotional guide for people struggling with patience. She needed cover art that synchronized with the book’s central theme: waiting.

“I knew her hair would start to fall out, and I knew that she would get really weak soon,” Fox said. “So, I knew we had to take care of this as soon as possible.”

Angel wrote the book under the penname Gracie Kay, named after her women’s ministry Gracie Kay Ministries. For her book’s cover art, she wanted an image that conveyed yearning and desire for answers from God. During their visit to the historic Biltmore, Colton’s imagination kicked into full force. He instructed his mom to pose with outstretched arms facing the Blue Ridge Mountains, opposite the renowned mansion. The finished photo, layered with some minor editing, fit the book theme perfectly.

“I was just able to capture that through the lens,” Colton said. “I feel like the Lord really wants to use my mom. This picture means a lot to my family, and especially to me. It’s one of my more favorite ones.”

Three weeks following the photoshoot, Angel started chemotherapy, which caused her hair to begin falling out.

Colton never intended to submit his photo for a competition, but he jumped at the opportunity when, in September, Liberty University’s Student Activities staff hosted a photography exposition competition. Students were allowed to submit up to two photos, and votes were tallied through social media.

“I felt like the Lord wanted me to use this picture in the competition, even though I probably wouldn’t win, because there were a lot of good pictures,” Colton said.

Students submitted over 140 photos, which were displayed throughout campus, with subjects ranging from landscapes, animals, profiles, timelines, and more. After hundreds of online votes, the results came in on Sept. 17. To Colton’s surprise, his photo of his mom, which he had titled, “Waiting on When,” won first place.

“It felt like an accomplishment,” he said. “It was kind of like a full circle of how the Lord has been working in our lives. … That photo became not only a book cover, but now people know that I took it. It’s not just a picture anymore; it’s a story and a testimony to what the Lord has done.”

His mother is now in remission, and in her book, she shares her personal testimony of enduring tremendous grief in her life, even before cancer took hold, and how the Lord grants peace to anyone willing to have patience in His providence.

Stories and testimonies are the focal point of Colton’s business, Truth and Faith Media, with the motto “turning moments into memories.” He produces media for weddings, families, parties, highlight reels, and testimonials. Colton also volunteers with the media team at Thomas Road Baptist Church (TRBC).

In addition to his volunteer and personal efforts, Colton serves as the vice president of his mom’s ministry.

Colton and his mother also share a special bond in their educational pursuits. Angel is pursuing a master’s degree in Christian counseling through Liberty.

“After decades of teaching, God moved in my life through trials and unforeseen circumstances to change my path,” Angel said. “That path included going back to school, and God led me to Liberty to complete my educational journey. My son joined me shortly thereafter to start his journey there as well. Even though I am online, and he is residential, it has still been a great experience to share together. We have been able to spend time on campus, Snowflex, and Liberty Mountain. Sharing and experiencing God’s vision for both of us has created a bond we will always be able to share. Thankful we will always be Flames for Jesus.”