Today we’d like to introduce you to Hayden Fancher.
Hi Hayden, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I spent 7 years as a college minister in College Station and after meeting my husband, I knew no job could compare to the life of international travel, & coffee with college students, so finding my something “next” was a bit up in the air.
I got my first camera when I was leaving for my first mission trip to Africa and something really clicked for me on that trip. I started taking photos of friends, then started charging for pictures but it always remained a low level hobby as opposed to a full passion pursuit.
When I moved to Katy after getting married, I told my always supportive husband, “I think I want to give photography a real go and see what happens!”
The Lord has seriously blessed this adventure and I am beyond grateful for all the ways it has allowed me to make community here in Houston. It has become a true ministry outpouring for me and I am grateful.
Every time another booking comes through, I tell my husband, bewildered, and we get to sit amazed at what the Lord has continued to bless!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This last year has been the smoothest it has been! It has been so sweet to continue to find people to serve through photography.
If I were to name any certain struggle, it would probably be my own self-doubt. In a field that is SATURATED I sometimes struggle to fathom why people would continue to choose me to take their photos. When you see social media and start to compare the success or the technical knowledge of other photographers, it can start to take away from your own confidence.
My husband and our close people have been such constant encouragers in speaking life over my doubt!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I would say that I specialize most in family photography. Little kiddos have ALWAYS been my jam and I absolutely love getting to get a real smile or reaction out of a shy kid. I want to make sure that parents feel comfortable letting their kids be kids without stressing that it has to be a certain way during our session!
I am most proud of the pictures that capture a family in their normal life. When dad is tickling the kid or mom is fixing their hair or they bury their neck in the parent or the sibling chases them through a field. I could go on but I think that gives the picture.
I really do think that my ability to work with kids without growing frustrated or annoyed is what will set me apart most. Parents have to stress to get ready for photos that when they get there, I want it to be the most enjoyable experience for everyone possible!
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
What a fun question!
I am your classic eldest daughter, type A, loves a good rule stereotype. But I have also always loved being creative. I will never turn down a good craft night!
Growing up, I loved working with kids. I thought I wanted to be a pediatric dentist but it wasn’t enough kid interaction time for me! Sunday mornings all I wanted to do was work in the nursery with the babies. I was obsessed with my siblings growing up, they are younger than me–we each have a three and a half year spread. I was like a little momma to my brother when he was born.
I think this early interest and understanding for kids has allowed me to become the family photographer I am today. Kids have always been drawn to me and vice versa. You can find me making a face at any kiddo in the grocery store or restaurant. 🙂
Contact Info:
- Website: https://haydenfancherphoto.com
- Instagram: haydenfancherphoto
- Facebook: Hayden Fancher Photo
