Meet Haley Kelsay | Intimate Wedding & Lifestyle Photographer

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

Hi Haley, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
I feel incredibly blessed to live a life overflowing with things that bring me pure joy. I have a loving family, an adventurous husband who joins me on this journey, and curious children who constantly wonder about the world. My home is filled with books and photographs, each one either taking me back to a cherished memory or transporting me to another world entirely. It’s the little moments of being barefoot, chasing after chickens, or lying in a hammock with my little ones. And then, there’s the ocean—its waves, the salty air, and the sand slipping through my fingers—this is where I feel most at home.

My heart is also full when I’m working. As a photographer, I get to blend my creativity and passion for storytelling to give my clients a gift that’s priceless. Photography is like folding down a page in your favorite book—something you can come back to and relive the emotions all over again. It’s nostalgia, captured and made tangible. But even more than that, it’s the opportunity to be a part of so many beautiful moments in other people’s lives. I get to cheer for you, to witness your happy days, and to be a part of your journey. That brings me so much joy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I consider myself a love and lifestyle photographer, but I often describe myself as a storyteller because that better reflects what I’m aiming to do. To me, every shoot is like stepping into a future memory. My goal is to create an experience that feels natural—something you’d do with your loved ones in a place that brings you joy. Some clients come to me with a clear vision for their story, while others allow me to bring their story to life. Either way, I see myself as a witness to the connection, capturing the moments that matter most.

I’m drawn to movement, emotion, and playfulness in my work. I love discovering a fresh perspective on a moment, capturing it from a unique angle that tells the story differently. My aim is for my clients to have a collection of images that, while beautiful on their own, come together to form a beautiful memory—a visual story they can relive for years to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There’s so much to love about New Bern and its surrounding areas. If it’s summer, we’re definitely waking up early to drive down to the beach—Fort Macon is always my go-to spot. Of course, we’ll need to stop for coffee on the way, and Sweet Annie’s in Bayboro is my favorite spot for that. Oh, and we can’t forget a donut! After soaking up the sun, we’ll head back into town and do some thrifting before dinner. I love checking out Backyard Bee’s and Franklin’s in downtown New Bern. We’ll grab a book from Next Chapter Books and something sweet from Bear City Fudge Company.

For dinner, it’s a toss-up between Cypress Hall and Baxters—both have the best vibes. But since we’ve got all week, why not do both? Another day, we can head up to Little Washington to stroll along the water, pop into shops, and grab a smoothie from River Vibes or a coffee from Washington Cafe. And of course, no trip is complete without a boat day! We’ll cruise along the river or head out to the intercoastal for a little adventure.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My biggest supporter has always been my husband, Justin. Over the past eight years of owning my business, he’s been the one who listens to it all—the fears, the insecurities, the endless “what-ifs.” And on the flip side, he also gets to hear the excitement, the moments when a shoot ignites something inside me and I can’t help but share every detail.

Being a full-time photographer and business owner has its challenges. While it allows me to support our family, there’s no certainty in it. Some seasons are overflowing with work, while others are much quieter. Through it all, Justin has been my steady encourager, whether I’m thriving or feeling completely burnt out. Without his stability, the doubt could’ve crept in. I’m incredibly grateful to have a husband who not only supports what I do but truly values what brings me joy.

Website: https://www.haleynicolephotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haleynicolephotos/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haleynicolephotos

Image Credits
Haley Nicole Photography