Finding My Lens: How Haley Nelson Went from Teaching to Telling Stories Through Photography

About My Passion & Start

I’ve always loved art. In high school, I signed up for every creative class I could, photography included. For the past decade, I’ve been a high school digital and visual art teacher, sharing that love with my students. But this past fall, everything shifted.

A friend asked me to photograph his wedding. I admitted I had zero professional experience—but I knew I could plan, prepare, and make it happen. I said yes, and I loved every second of it. Since that October day in 2024, I’ve been diving into weddings, family sessions, maternity, newborn shoots—you name it. And as a new mom myself, I feel especially connected to capturing those fleeting family moments.

While I enjoy it all, I’m most drawn to engagements and family photos. I love hearing people’s stories—how they got here—and finding a way to freeze that feeling in time.

“Capturing these moments isn’t work—it’s an honor.”

Creative Process & Start

If I had to describe my style in three words, it would be warm, moody, authentic. Still, it’s evolving. Each session feels different, and I adapt my approach to the people in front of me. I send clients mood boards for inspiration, encourage them to bring their own ideas, and love blending their vision with my style so the final gallery feels like them.

Local Lens

From downtown buzz to mountain trails like Chautauqua or Lost Gulch, there’s no shortage of backdrops. But my favorite sessions are in places that mean something to my clients—it makes the images that much more special.

Connection & Meaning

At the heart of my work is connection. Maybe it’s the teacher in me, but I’m quick to read personalities and help people feel comfortable. Whether someone wants their photos to feel romantic, playful, or whimsical, I aim to capture them in a way that feels real—not stiff or staged.

Looking Ahead

Though I only started last year, I already know photography will be a huge part of my future. Weddings light me up, and now that I’ve stepped away from teaching, I’m excited to fully dive in. Whether it’s “I do’s,” newborn snuggles, or golden-hour family photos, I can’t wait to grow into this next chapter—camera in hand, chasing the stories that matter most.