More Than a Photographer — A Storyteller with Heart, Purpose, and Perspective
I’m Hayley — a Knoxville, Tennessee-based photographer, social worker, community organizer, podcaster, wife, and mom. I wear a lot of hats, but at the heart of everything I do is one mission: to tell stories that matter.
I specialize in wedding and family photography that captures more than just beautiful images — I want you to feel something when you look at my work. Like hearing an old song that instantly takes you back, my photos are meant to transport you to the raw, real moments that make up your life. The joy, the love, the laughter, the grief, the resilience — it all belongs.
My photography is deeply family-focused and emotionally grounded. I notice the quiet in-between moments: the way your dad tears up during your vows, the kids dancing barefoot in the grass, your grandmother’s hands adjusting your veil. These are the images that become generational treasures.
As someone with a Master’s in Social Work (earned in 2021 with a concentration in Organizational Leadership), I bring a unique lens to my photography. I’ve spent years working in local government as a community organizer, where empathy, advocacy, and connection aren’t just important — they’re essential. That experience shapes how I show up for you. I don’t just document your story — I take time to understand it, so you feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
My style is a thoughtful blend of editorial elegance and documentary honesty — a balance between timeless portraits and unscripted, emotional moments. Whether you're planning a wedding in Knoxville or saying “I do” among the wild beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, I’m here to capture your day with artistry and care.
When I’m not photographing or organizing in the community, I’m spending time with my kids, my husband, and our two dogs—usually on Norris Lake, where we keep our boat and soak up the Tennessee summers. I’m also a true crime enthusiast and the host of Looks That Kill, a podcast sharing victim's stories, unsolved mysteries, conspiracies, and all things alien related.
If you’re looking for a photographer who leads with empathy, sees the beauty in the everyday, and creates meaningful experiences—not just sessions—I’d be honored to be part of your story.
ABOUT //
AS SEEN IN
GREEN WEDDING SHOES
THE KNOT
VOGUE WEDDINGS
THINK WE WOULD BE A good fit?
It is super important to me that we are a good fit for each other if I am going to photograph your wedding. Getting married to the love of your life is something you get to do once, and you want your third wheel for the day to be someone you genuinely connect with and trust. You’ll spend more time with your wedding photographer than any other vendor on your big day, so choose wisely.
You might be wondering what types of people I enjoy working with the most... so I’ll tell you in terms of the brides I tend to connect with.
My ideal client is a thoughtful, ambitious woman aged 25-35, who has big goals and dreams and a plan to pursue them. She is determined and values the balance of ambition and meaningful relationships. While she may be slightly introverted, she thrives in the company of her close-knit circle and feels renewed when surrounded by those who share her values.
She appreciates the beauty of slowing down to truly connect, enjoying deep and intentional conversations. Travel and cultural experiences are essential to her, enriching her perspective and grounding her. Confident in her relationship, she isn’t shy about expressing affection and celebrates the security and depth she shares with her partner.
While she values quality and enjoys the finer things, she remains humble, grounded, and focused on what truly matters. With a heart for family, whether it’s her own or her chosen family, she is loyal, empathetic, and lives with a commitment to treating others with respect and kindness. Nature, small moments, and everyday beauty resonate deeply with her.
Grounded in her faith in God, she embodies empathy, gratitude, and a respectful reverence for life.
fave
Venues:
The Dimora
Howe Farms
Nichols Heir
The Lumen House
The Loyston
The Trillium
The Pressroom
Jackson Terminal
Waterstone Venue
Harper's Vineyard
TN RiverPlace
The Quarry
The Monroe on 415th
Trailhead Venues
The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge
sound like you?
"Hayley feels like a friend"
I was told by one of my bridesmaids that these were the best wedding pictures she’d ever seen.
Hayley was perfect! I loved our engagement pictures and our wedding pictures. I was told by one of my bridesmaids that these were the best wedding pictures she’d ever seen. Hayley feels like a friend instead of a stranger and for me that’s BIG. I couldn’t be more grateful for having her as our photographer.
"You will NOT regret choosing Hayley"
She is able to make you feel SO comfortable and make the shoot SO much fun!
Hayley has been the best photographer!! She is talented in her work, but
she’s so much more than that! She is able to make you feel SO comfortable and make the shoot SO much fun! I’ve been nothing short of amazed with every gallery I’ve received! You will NOT regret choosing Hayley as your photographer.
"None of our pictures looked forced"
You made me and Drew feel so at ease.
It was not awkward whatsoever. You made me and Drew feel so at ease, and you made sure we posed correctly. None of our pictures looked forced. You helped us relax and look natural. I have received multiple compliments on how beautiful my pictures were. I will cherish them and that day forever.
