Meet Hailey Birchfield

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hailey Birchfield.  

Hi Hailey, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My story began when I got my first camera. I grew up in a small town and loved taking photos of nature, friends, and my family. I always struggled with body image growing up but loved how people reacted when they saw these photos of themselves. I could see their confidence rise, if only for that moment. It really sparked something inside me. When I moved to Columbus, I started connecting with people through Instagram and really worked on my skills as a photographer. In 2020, I started to focus on boudoir and portraits. I knew where these people were coming from. They didn’t feel good enough. They didn’t feel like they fit the standard. From there I made it my mission to photograph people for who they are. I wanted to focus on what makes them unique and beautiful. I wanted them to see that they are good enough and that they have that confidence inside of them. My photography is more than just photos. It’s inclusive. It’s a safe space. It’s all part of a journey to really accepting yourself and loving who you are. As I always say, you’re never “too” anything to be in front of my camera. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
My journey through photography has been a little tough. It was a lot of self-teaching, late nights, lessons learned, and trying to find the confidence in myself that I so badly wanted others to see. As a true introvert, it was really hard to reach out to people I didn’t know at first. It was a huge adjustment to come from a town where I knew nearly everyone to a city where I knew no one. I wouldn’t change anything though. I have made some great friendships and I wouldn’t be where I am without the ups and downs I went through. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a photographer, I have experimented with so many types of photography. I landed on boudoir and portraits because it was something that really resonated with me. I love capturing the intricacies of other people. People are so unique and there is so much beauty in that. I would say that I am most known for my body-positive, inclusive attitude. I know that struggle of feeling insecure so I can relate to and work with my client to achieve something they love. On a technical side, I would say I am most known for my editing style. I’m most proud of how outspoken I am about the insecurities that go along with being human. I think that really even sets me apart from others. I’m not afraid to tell someone that I get nervous in front of a camera too. We build a connection and then create something amazing. 

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the sense of community that I found here in Columbus. When I moved here, I thought that I wouldn’t have that. I also love the nooks and crannies that I have found throughout the city while shooting. It has become like my own little map to get around. I think the thing I like least is parallel parking. I know that sounds crazy but I never had to do it growing up and will now always look for a garage. 

Pricing:

• Boudoir Starts at $250
• Portraits Start at $300

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haileybirchfield/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/haileybirchfieldboudoir