Meet Hayley Steck | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hayley Steck and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hayley, what are you inspired by?
I find inspiration from a number of sources, but a major influence for my work comes from my filmmaking background. Studying film in college gave me a deep appreciation for artistic storytelling. Color theory, lighting, and editing are a few examples of what I still apply towards my photography work.

Another inspiration for me is music. I can spend hours just listening to songs, watching music videos and visualizing concepts inspired by the lyrics and melodies.

While film, tv and music are all great inspirations to me, what really sparks my creativity is brainstorming and collaborating with others. I love bouncing ideas and concepts back and forth with friends and clients. Sharing abstract ideas can make a visual concept that much more powerful when it includes a more diverse perspective.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I want to express how passionate I am with every project I take on. When it comes to photography, it’s more than just a means of income for me. I truly love what I do. I put my whole heart into each shoot and it’s my goal that those I work with benefit from that.

I take pride in the fact that I’m a very hard worker and I go above and beyond for my clients and colleagues. I’m always searching for ways to sharpen my skills (pun totally intended), refine my brand and improve my client experience. I believe those aspects are crucial to the growth of my business.

Having high standards and persistence allows me to look back on my previous accomplishments with pride and optimism for future opportunities. Although at times it can take a lot out of me, I wouldn’t trade it for any other path because I love this chaotic, exciting, inspiring, ever-changing career of mine.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Starting the day off right with one of the many charming coffee shops Phoenix has to offer, such as, 808 Social, Driftwood Coffee (for the west-siders) or Ollie Vaughn’s downtown. Followed by plant shopping at Pueblo on Grand.

Another great thing about Phoenix is the artistic presence. There’s the Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Desert Botanical Garden (which blends art and desert landscape together beautifully) or the downtown art scene at Roosevelt Row’s First Fridays.

If you’re in the east valley, I highly recommend downtown Gilbert for the quaint, modern farm town vibes, enchanting night scene and so many great dining options.

The perfect cherry on top would be catching one of the ASU Gammage’s fantastic shows. Their performances such as Les Misérables, The Lion King or Cinderella do not disappoint.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve learned so much from my friends and colleagues. Whether it be working on sets together, passion projects, sharing work-experience/knowledge, or by simply encouraging each other working towards our professional aspirations.

I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my good friend Tracy Locke. Since 2014 we have worked on numerous creative projects, film/photo shoots and events together. We met in SCC’s immersive film production program, otherwise known as “the block.”

Tracy is an extremely creative individual with many talents, though she specializes in acting and directing. I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph her/with her on many occasions where we collaborate on artistic concepts. It’s such a privilege to work with like-minded individuals you just vibe with.

Website: umberphoto.co

Instagram: @umberphotoco

Image Credits
Umber Photo Co.