Meet the Photographer Hailey Shea

Self-portrait of Hailey taken at Studio Boise in Idaho.

Hi there - I'm Hailey Shea, and I'm so glad you're here! If you've found your way to my site, chances are you're looking for a photographer who doesn't just snap pictures but captures the real experiences. Whether it's the thunderous roar of a race car crossing the finish line or the quiet, raw emotion of a creative portrait session, my goal is to preserve those moments in their most authentic, beautiful form.

Photography isn't just what I do - it's who I am. It's my way of telling stories, freezing time, and capturing the moments that might otherwise slip by unnoticed. When I'm not photographing for clients, you'll find me photographing for myself - collecting vintage cameras, shooting on film, and exploring the world through a different lens.

Outside of photography, I'm a lover of travel, music, reading, and spending time with my cat, Pumpkin. I've lived in three states and am currently based in the beautiful Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. I also hold a bachelor's degree in graphic design with a concentration in photography from Taylor University, which has shaped the way I approach both my art and my business.

My Journey into Photography

I basically grew up at the racetrack. My grandpa owned the Meridian Speedway in Idaho, my dad a professional INDYCAR driver, and my brother following in their footsteps. The track wasn't just a weekend destination - it was a second home. But to be honest, I didn't always feel like I belonged there.

While everyone else was focused on speed, strategy, and horsepower, I was the kid off to the side playing in the dirt, picking rocks out of tires, and unknowingly huffing gasoline fumes like it was cologne (in my defense, I was very young and very unaware of how NOT good that was for me... oops).

I even tried to get behind the wheel a couple of times... let's just say those are stories for another blog. Spoiler alert: I did NOT inherit the racing gene, though I will say I am a much better driver now and would love the opportunity to get back behind the wheel!

It wasn't until high school that I started exploring photography. At first, it was just something I liked - a creative escape. But in college, I really started to hone my skills, learning how to use photography as a way to tell stories and express emotion. The more I shot, the more I realized this wasn't just a hobby - it was something I was meant to do.

After graduation, I got the opportunity to intern as a photographer for INDYCAR, and everything clicked. The rush of being trackside with a camera, capturing the speed, the tension, the emotion - I completely fell in love with it. For the first time, I felt like I finally belonged at the places I grew up in. Not behind the wheel, but behind the camera.

One of my first times getting to photograph at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during an INDYNXT practice.

What I Shoot (And Why It Matters)

I specialize in two very different but equally powerful areas: motorsports photography and creative portraits.

• Motorsports Photography - with my roots deep in racing culture, I bring a unique insider's perspective, while also staying true to the excitement that every spectator knows and loves. I know when and where the action peaks. I don't just shoot the race - I shoot emotion of it. The stories in the paddock, the tension in the garage, the silent focus behind the visor.

• Creative Portraits & Branding - Outside the track, I love crafting visual stories through bold, expressive portraits. Whether we're doing a moody studio session, a lifestyle shoot for your brand, or headshots with personality, I help people feel seen and confident in front of the camera.

I also photograph weddings, events, landscapes, street life - you name it! I also am able to utilize my background in digital marketing and social media to elevate the experience for the people that I get to work alongside. This means that every photo is not only beautiful - it's strategic.

My Approach

I keep things laid-back, collaborative, and real. I want you to feel comfortable, heard, and hyped about the experience. Whether I'm capturing your race team in the pits or shooting your brand campaign in studio, I'll guide you just enough while still making space for real, candid moments to unfold.

And no matter the shoot, I bring intention to everything - prep, shooting, editing, and delivery. I'm big on clean, bold edits that stay true to the moment, with just enough creative flair to make your images pop.

Why I Do This

I started this business to merge two things I love: visual storytelling and human connection. I know what it feels like to be on the sidelines - like your story doesn't quite fit the mold. So, I built a space where people like you can feel seen, celebrated, and proud of how you show up on camera.

Whether I'm documenting the speed of a race car or the soft stillness of a portrait, my goal is the same: to capture the truth of a moment - and make it unforgettable.

Thanks for being here and getting to know me. I'm excited to share more of my work, behind-the-scenes stories, and photography tips in future posts.

Until then - stay bold, stay curious, and maybe don't sniff gasoline.