We recently connected with Kelli Hayden and have shared our conversation below.
Kelli, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I knew immediately at the earliest age one could know that they desired a creative way of life. I can’t think of a single moment where I never did. I got my first camera at the age of ten, and then I started drawing shortly after. To this day, 27 years later at the age of 37, I still do both, fondly.
Kelli, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I introduce myself as a lifestyle and travel photographer. It started in my early teenage years as a high school student who took a traditional black-and-white photography class, fell in love with the darkroom process, and then evolved as a photographer now operating in this digital playing field. Over the years, I’ve provided many different styles of photography, especially in my hustle years when I was trying to find myself as an artist, and business owner. My first love is and always will be music/concert photography. To me, it’s never boring. In one way, it’s how I connect with music. I’ve offered a variety of other photography services from destination weddings, lifestyle, commercial, and behind-the-scenes stills, to travel and adventure journalism – my latest love.
I would have to say I’m most proud of the experiences I’ve been fortunate to have that have definitely helped shape me into the person and artist I am today. Every story to success is never identical to another. Our stories are always evolving and as an artist, it’s important to learn to embrace change and the unique ways we reach our goals and climb to the top. If there is anything I would like my brand to show/tell any client, fan, or follower, it would be that it’s okay to leave your comfort zone. Your goals should scare you. Take that risk! Be unique and adventurous, it’s never boring!
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Funny enough, I’m currently doing a pivot in my business as we speak! As an artist who has worn many different “photography hats”, I’ve spent a lot of time finding and perfecting my niche. Throughout the years, however, my tastes and goals sometimes change and I’ve rebranded myself a few times. I always feel like I’m re-entering the industry when I want to discover a new avenue or field. At the moment, I’ve taken a step back, deleted my social media accounts, and want to review what I’ve done and where I truly want to go, and plan to change the trajectory of my career and name.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
For every job I book, I accept it planning and believing that I will absolutely love and thrive working with that brand or client – and I’m usually always right. A large part of being happy at “work” is when you realize you do love being there. Working with like-minded clients, shooting for brands you personally love, and them allowing you to utilize your creativity to help them make some visual magic is so rewarding and those happy feelings are what keeps me here!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kellihayden.com/portfolio