Today we’d like to introduce you to Allee Hays.
Hi Allee, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was a public school teacher for ten years and felt a nudge for a change. I have always been the friend that was capturing all the memories: the one friends swear nothing would be documented if I wasn’t there. During what I know now as my last year of teaching, I started to venture out to photography. In May of 2023, I decided to leave the classroom and pursue a photography business of my own! And I love it! This has been a perfect mix of taking my experience of working with children (the importance of making them feel comfortable) and blending it with my love of taking pictures. As a mom, I know how critical capturing those tiny hands and cubby cheeks are as those years are fleeting. I am so glad that i took the leap of faith because I could not imagine not having this as my career!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Absolutely not! I did not go to college to study photography and had no idea about taking a picture more than just pushing a button. It has taken many YouTube videos, several mentoring sessions with photographers I look up to, and a lot of patience for learning something that is a lot harder than it looks. Not to mention, figuring out how to run your own business!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a family and lifestyle photographer and specialize in personality portraits. Clients know me for making their sessions memorable and fun. My biggest compliment has been several dads saying “That wasn’t so bad!” and that they loved their sessions!
I am most proud of how quickly I have been able to grow my business. When I started I was primarily focused on just families, and over a short period of time I have expanded into preschool picture days which has been so incredibly well received by preschools and their families. My teacher heart could not be more happy!
Something that sets me apart from others is my ability to connect with my clients and make them feel comfortable! Whether I am working with a family, senior, or preschooler during personality picture day, I focus on capturing authentic expressions and genuine personality rather than perfectly posed smiles. I strive to make every session feel like an experience rather than an obligation.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
The biggest risk was quitting my job that I went to college for and loved and thought I would do for the rest of my life. However, I feel like real growth happens when risks are taken. This whole entire journey has been so scary: there is fear of failure, rejection, and experiencing imposter syndrome.
Contact Info:
- Website: HTTPS://sessionl.ink/alleepatricephotography
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/alleehaysphotography
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/alleehaysphotography
