Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Hackett.
Hi Heather, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my photography business about 15 years ago when, as a single mom and a teacher, I needed to find a second stream of income. Photography had always been something I loved. Growing up, my dad had a darkroom in our basement, so I was exposed to photography from a young age, and I later went on to major in fine arts in college.
I started by photographing friends and family, building my portfolio one session at a time, while also bringing my camera along to photograph my kids’ sports. What started as a way to earn some extra income slowly grew through word of mouth, referrals, and a lot of hard work.
Over the years, my business has grown into something I truly love. Today, I photograph seniors, families, sports, events, weddings and everything in between. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some incredible people and organizations, but I still approach every shoot the same way I did in the beginning, wanting to capture moments and give people photographs they’ll genuinely love. Fifteen years later, I’m incredibly grateful that something I’ve always loved has become such a big part of my life.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. Photography is a very competitive and saturated market, especially in the Phoenix area, so one of the biggest challenges is showing clients the value in what you do and what they are investing in.
Being a woman in men’s sports photography has also come with its challenges. I’ve had to prove myself at times, but I’ve learned to let my work and the relationships I’ve built speak for themselves. Overall, the challenges have only pushed me to grow and become better at what I do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I would say what sets me apart most is the relationships I build with the people I photograph and the care I put into every shoot. I really do shoot with my heart, and I think that comes through in my work.
I’m probably best known for my high school sports photography, but I photograph everything from seniors and families to weddings and events. Some of the work I’m most proud of, though, is the work I’ve been able to do with organizations like the Down Syndrome Network, Childhelp and CareBridge Collective. Being able to use photography to support organizations doing such meaningful work will always have a special place in my heart.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I truly believe dreams can come true if you’re willing to work hard for them. One of my biggest photography dreams was to photograph an Iowa Hawkeye football game. I’m a huge Hawkeye fan, and a few years ago I was given the opportunity to shoot a game, something I’ll never forget.
I’ve also been a teacher for 29 years, so inspiring and encouraging young people has always been a huge part of who I am. I love that photography has given me another way to do that, especially through the athletes and students I get to work with.
At the end of the day, I just want to keep doing what I love, creating memories for athletes, families, couples and everyone who steps in front of my camera. I feel incredibly lucky that after 15 years, I still get excited about what I do and what might come next.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.heatherhackettcreates.com
- Instagram: @heatherhackettcreates
- Facebook: @heatherhackettcreates
- Twitter: @hackettaz
- Other: tiktoc @heatherhackettcreates
