Legend of Light: Jamie Hayes

06 June, 2018

Written by: Profoto USA

Meet Legend of Light : Jamie Hayes

Tell us a little about yourself… Who you are, where you’re from, what you shoot/specialize in.

My name is Jamie Hayes and I live in Richmond Virginia, originally from Verona Virginia. My business partner Mary Fisk-Taylor and I own Hayes & Fisk Photographed and have been in business for almost 25 years. I first met Mary while photographing her bridal portraits on the steps of The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond VA. She is awesome! We have three divisions of our business we photograph people (families, children, couples, etc.) weddings and commercial assignments. We specialize in hand painted brush oil paintings, combining our canvas miunt d portraiture with the time-honored art of free hand oil painting.

How did you get started in photography?

My neighbor, the baseball coach, dismissed me after 2 practices because “I lacked hand-eye coordination”. Heartbroken I purchased my first camera with my Mom’s S&H green stamps. The rest is history!

What Profoto gear are you currently using?

Profoto B1X, Profoto D1 Air, Profoto A1’s. Anything with an Air Remote!

When did you start shooting with Profoto?

I started shooting with Profoto while doing live broadcasts, using the light options that were available to me. I found the quality of the products to stand out right away. I started shooting with the Profoto B2s (and a good assortment of light shaping modifiers) about five years ago, and I have been using them quite regularly ever since.

Do you have a favorite lighting setup?

Absolutely, my simple lighting concept which I teach and is the basis for everything I create. 4 D1 heads total indoors, main light, fill light and 2 bounce lights. Yes, bounce lights! With this concept I never have to make any exposure or lighting adjustments for any background I choose. Be it high key white to dmax black and everything in between. It’s the one answer for any subject, anytime, anywhere without changing a thing! Really!!!

What is one thing you’re able to do with Profoto lights that you weren’t able to do before?

Cordless lighting set up. I used to find power first then choose background. Now I walk into any space and just choose what the best background is. These are a game changer and it takes a lot to make me change my thought process to lighting.

What is the most important piece of advice you’ve received pertaining to photography?

Don’t copy anyone, just be true to your vision, your way, never compromise.

What is your biggest challenge being a portrait and wedding photographer? How do you overcome it?

Having a lighting system and concept that allows you to never think about how to light a subject. I always have the lighting answer if I start with my simple concept. Profoto strobes and light modifiers allow me the confidence of never worrying about controlling the light, it’s always easy, reliable and adaptable to any situation period!

Just buy Profoto lighting equipment. Really, it will make all your lighting trouble disappear. When you don’t have to think about your camera and lights at any assignment you free your mind to be fully present with your subject and that is where true creativity is born. Connecting your true purpose and raw talent with your destiny. Heavy stuff huh, but so right!

What is your dream assignment?

My next one!

Thanks Jamie!