Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Fisk-taylor

Mary, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

My path to becoming a professional photographer was far from conventional. Growing up, I never saw myself as artistic and certainly didn’t envision running a small business. My childhood was marked by modest means and significant personal losses, including the death of my father when I was just eight years old and the eventual loss of my beloved grandmother, who was one of my biggest supporters.

Despite these challenges, photography found its way into my life in a transformative way. The pivotal moment came during my bridal portrait session. I had prioritized having beautiful wedding portraits, but my anxiety about being photographed almost derailed the session. That was until I met Jamie Hayes, the photographer who made me feel comfortable and maybe even beautiful in front of the camera. His ability to see and capture these portraits of me changed my perception of photography and its impact.

Two years later, as fate would have it, I reconnected with Jamie, who had started his own studio. When he needed help, I eagerly stepped in, initially handling administrative tasks but gradually taking on more responsibilities. My role evolved from assisting to becoming a full partner and eventually earning my PPA Masters and Craftsmen degrees.

The loss of my grandmother, who meticulously documented our family’s life but shied away from the camera herself, reinforced the importance of preserving memories. Her influence, combined with Jamie’s mentorship, inspired me to capture the beauty and essence of my clients’ lives, ensuring they have cherished memories to look back on.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing countless families, witnessing their joy, and sometimes their sorrows, and saving these moments for generations to come. My personal journey of overcoming insecurities about being photographed has deepened my empathy and connection with my clients, allowing me to create images that reflect their true selves.

Today, I not only capture photographs but also paint digital portraits, adding a personal touch to the heirloom pieces I create. My work is a tribute to my clients ensuring that no one feels left out of their family’s visual history.

This journey from a hesitant bride to accomplished photographer has been one of personal growth, fueled by a passion for preserving memories and a commitment to helping others see the beauty in themselves.

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?

The road to where I am today has been anything but smooth. My journey as a professional photographer has been marked by numerous challenges, both personal and professional, which have shaped my approach to my work and deepened my empathy for my clients.

Personal Struggles

One of the most significant personal challenges I faced was the loss of my father at a young age due to his struggles with addiction. This loss left my family in a state of survival mode, and I leaned heavily on my grandmother, who became my best friend and biggest supporter. Her death from lung cancer when I was in my twenties was another devastating blow. These personal losses taught me the importance of cherishing and preserving memories, fueling my passion for photography.

Additionally, my own insecurities about being photographed were a major hurdle. Growing up, I often avoided the camera, feeling uncomfortable and critical of my appearance. This hesitation carried into adulthood, even as I began my career in photography. Overcoming this fear required a shift in perspective, recognizing the value of being present in photos for my children and future generations.

Professional Challenges

Starting my career in photography was also filled with professional challenges. When I began working with Jamie Hayes, I had no formal training in photography or business management. I started with administrative tasks, gradually learning the technical and artistic aspects of photography while balancing the demands of running a small business.

Building a successful photography studio required dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn. There were moments of doubt and setbacks, such as managing a rapidly growing client base and staying ahead of the increasing workload. I had to develop new skills and continuously improve my craft to provide the best possible service to our clients.

Balancing Family and Career

Another significant struggle was balancing my career with raising a family. As a mother of two, I often felt the pull between spending time with my children and dedicating myself to my work. This balancing act was particularly challenging during the early years of my career when the business demanded long hours and constant attention. However, my husband’s support and understanding played a crucial role in navigating these challenges.

Overcoming Insecurities

Perhaps one of the most profound struggles was my ongoing battle with self-image. Like my grandmother, I often felt uncomfortable in front of the camera, preferring to stay behind it. It wasn’t until my daughter pointed out the lack of recent family photos that I realized I was repeating the cycle of avoiding being photographed. This realization prompted me to confront my insecurities and ensure that I, too, was part of our family’s visual history.

Conclusion

These struggles, while difficult, have been instrumental in shaping who I am as a photographer and a person. They have deepened my empathy for my clients, many of whom share similar insecurities and challenges. My personal and professional journey has taught me the importance of resilience, self-acceptance, and the profound impact of preserving memories. Through these experiences, I have learned to see beauty in everyone I photograph, helping them to recognize and celebrate it in themselves.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

As a professional photographer and co-owner of Hayes & Fisk Photography, my work revolves around capturing the essence and beauty of the people and moments that matter most to my clients. At Hayes & Fisk, we specialize in creating timeless and heirloom-quality portraits that families will cherish for generations. Our studio is renowned for its artistic excellence, attention to detail, and personalized approach to photography.

Specializations

1. Family Portraits:
We excel in creating stunning family portraits that capture the unique dynamics and connections within each family. Whether in our portrait gardens, at the client’s favorite location, or in their home, we aim to create a comfortable and relaxed environment that brings out the best in everyone.

2. Children’s Portraits:
Capturing the fleeting moments of childhood is a passion of ours. We focus on preserving the innocence, joy, and wonder of children through beautifully composed and expertly lit portraits.

3. Wedding Photography:
Our wedding photography is known for its elegance and emotional depth. We capture the candid moments, the joy, and the beauty of the wedding day, creating a visual narrative that couples will treasure forever.

At Hayes & Fisk, we pride ourselves on providing a highly personalized experience for each client. From the initial consultation to the final delivery of portraits, we work closely with our clients to understand their vision and preferences, ensuring that the final product exceeds their expectations. Our studio is known for its artistic excellence and technical proficiency. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement, staying at the forefront of photographic and artistic trends to deliver exceptional quality in every portrait. One of our core strengths is our ability to create an emotional connection with our clients. We understand the importance of the moments we capture and strive to reflect the love, joy, and beauty that define each family and individual. We believe in creating portraits that stand the test of time. Our commitment to heirloom quality means that our clients receive not just photographs but cherished pieces of art that will be passed down through generations.

I am most proud of the impact our work has on our clients’ lives. Hearing stories of how our portraits have become treasured family heirlooms, bringing joy and preserving memories, is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, I am proud of my personal journey of overcoming insecurities and using my experiences to help others see their own beauty and worth. Hayes & Fisk Photography is more than just a photography studio; it is a place where memories are preserved, stories are told, and beauty is celebrated. Our dedication to artistic excellence, personalized service, and emotional connection sets us apart, making us a trusted name in the world of portrait photography.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?

One surprising aspect about me that most people who know my work or brand might not be aware of is that, despite my professional achievements and public persona, I am a true introvert who struggles with insecurities and imposter syndrome. To the outside world, I may appear confident and extroverted. I have taught photography and business techniques all over the world, sharing my knowledge and experience with countless professionals. My weekly podcast allows me to connect with a broad audience, discussing industry trends, best practices, and personal stories. These activities require a significant amount of public speaking and interaction, which might lead people to assume that I am naturally outgoing and self-assured.

In reality, I am quite the opposite. As a true introvert, I find that large social interactions and public engagements can be draining. I often need to retreat into my personal space to recharge and reflect. This introspective nature is a core part of who I am and has shaped my approach to both life and work. Alongside my introversion, I grapple with insecurities and imposter syndrome. Despite years of experience and numerous accolades in the photography industry, there are moments when I doubt my abilities and question my place among my peers. The fear of not being “good enough” or being exposed as a fraud can be overwhelming at times. These struggles have taught me the value of vulnerability and self-acceptance. They have made me more empathetic and compassionate, both towards myself and my clients. Understanding my own insecurities has allowed me to connect on a deeper level with those I photograph, many of whom share similar feelings of self-doubt.

The journey of embracing my introverted nature and confronting my insecurities has been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. It has made me a better photographer, a more relatable teacher, and a more authentic person. By acknowledging and sharing this lesser-known side of myself, I hope to inspire others to embrace their true selves and recognize that they are not alone in their struggles.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hayesandfisk.com
• Instagram: @maryfisktaylor
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.fisktaylor