Having a sister is like having a best friend you can’t get rid of, and for Arkansas native Megan Taylor, she wouldn’t have it any other way. While older sister Alex Taylor has made a name for herself racing a 6-second, 200-MPH 1955 Chevrolet on track, Megan has been by her side racing to post fresh social media content just as quickly.
[Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #189, the Women of Power Issue, in July/August of 2024.]
With over 750,000 total subscribers across a variety of social media channels, Megan’s role at Alex Taylor Racing is imperative. Whether she’s capturing her sister’s performance during the strenuous drag-and-drive events or watching her make history at the Bonneville Salt Flats, Taylor’s competitive nature is evident as she is determined to always be the first to drive new and unique content online. In the fast-paced world of motorsports media, Taylor’s expertise in social media management, photography, and graphic design is truly exceptional. Earning her B.S. in Graphic Design on a full scholarship at the University of Arkansas, Taylor has been able to utilize her skills to help her sister achieve significant recognition in the motorsports industry.
As if her role at Alex Taylor Racing didn’t keep her busy enough, Taylor also serves as the Marketing Content Manager and Graphic Designer for Isky Racing Cams. There, she manages the company’s social media account, which has over 70,000 followers, and also photographs Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings events. In her photography, Taylor’s artistic flair captures the genuine emotions experienced by teams during race weekends.
“Personally, I love the emotion behind drag racing. Each weekend can be like a rollercoaster and it’s so much fun capturing those moments for teams,” Taylor says.
One of her favorite things about photographing NPK events is the feedback she receives from her subjects. Many people are surprised to find out that Taylor even took their picture until they scroll through the event album on social media. Her talent for stealthily capturing moments for people to look back on is one of the main reasons why she started taking photographs at a young age. Taylor also admits that she is most comfortable standing behind the lens due to her introverted personality.
In August 2023, the sisters’ journey led them to the Bonneville Salt Flats, where Megan photographed Alex’s attempt at a 200-MPH licensing run. Megan was particularly captivated by the unique location, which was different from the regular racetracks they usually visited. It was not only special to their family, but also a testament to the sisters’ shared ability to seize new opportunities when they arise.
“I would not be where I am today in my career if she wasn’t where she is. We always help each other grow and step up to new challenges,” Megan says.
Recently, Taylor was unanimously voted into the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) as a Member at Large. The MPMC is a council of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) established for companies involved in manufacturing functional performance parts. She serves on the Communications Committee and is primarily focusing on digitizing processes and increasing interaction with automotive manufacturers through social media. At 24 years old, Taylor is the youngest member to sit on the Council, but she brings a wealth of knowledge that aligns with the current modern era.
In early May, the Taylor sisters attended the annual SEMA and PRI Washington Rally. At the event, they met with members of Congress to discuss the Right to Repair Act. This Act is designed to protect vehicle owners’ rights to repair or modify their vehicles with advanced technology and aftermarket parts if they wish to do so.
“We had no idea what we were getting into, but once we arrived, it was amazing,” Taylor says. “We met with politicians, the president of SEMA, and learned that people can use their voice to protect their automotive freedoms.”
Taylor was fascinated to learn that the Specialty Automotive Aftermarket industry, which is closely connected to motorsports, generates $337 billion in annual economic impact and supports over 1.3 million American jobs. The sisters did not fully comprehend the significance of their actions on Capitol Hill until their father’s Facebook post garnered hundreds of messages of gratitude, thanking them for representing the car industry.
Experiencing a variety of special moments alongside her sister is what Taylor cherishes most. There is an unbreakable trust between the two of them, which can be hard to find in the world of motorsports media. Although there are times when they don’t always agree, the bond they share is a true testament to the success they have achieved so far.
Through her sister’s journey in establishing herself the industry, Taylor has been there every step of the way observing, learning, and growing into her very own role in the industry. For Taylor, her long-term goal is to continue adding unique projects to her already diverse portfolio. Her intention is to continue capturing all areas of motorsports through her love of photography, talent for storytelling, and passion for racing.
This story was originally published on August 20, 2024.
The post Behind the Scenes: Megan Taylor’s Passion for Storytelling, Advocacy, and Motorsports first appeared on Drag Illustrated.