1. What sparked your interest in photography?

Photography has always been a part of who I am. Growing up, my Mom constantly had a camera pointed at our family or a beautiful landscape. I loved watching her photograph things, and it quickly became a medium I was interested in. Once in high school, I enrolled in a photography class. I was instantly hooked. Ever since that first day of class in the 10th grade, I knew photography would be my biggest passion in life. Since then, I continue to learn and grow as an artist. I look forward to seeing what my work will look like in 20 years.

2. Tell us about Kim Hayes Photography.

I started Kim Hayes Photography (originally Kim Behrens Photography- my maiden name) while attending the Art Institute of Seattle in 2004. After graduation, I dabbled in commercial photography and worked for a few magazines, but realized I missed forming personal relationships with my clients. In the past I had photographed a few weddings for friends, and found that I loved capturing (and participating) in one of the most special days in a couples life. That realization made me quickly change my focus, and I haven’t looked back! For the last 4 years, weddings have been my main endeavor. I also specialize in creative portraiture.

The goal with my photography is to deliver a set of beautiful images that truly represent you. And of course, have a little fun in the process. I am constantly challenging myself to produce more creative and fresh images for my clients.

3. What is your most memorable moment at a wedding?

All of my clients have left an impression on me one way or another. I end up feeling really close to the people that I photograph, and when I think back on each and every client, I can’t help but smile. Inevitably, we have had some sort of adventure together, and that’s what I love most about my job!

While every wedding has its special moments, one moment in particular sticks out in my mind. Caiti and Robby got hitched last year at the Seattle Yacht Club. Towards the end of the ceremony, Caiti’s brother got up to give a final reading. After his poem, he decided to do something a little unconventional; he instructed the crowd to join him in a cheer for the couple. In a true sports fan style, he raised his hand over the right side of the crowd and instructed them to yell “Caiti.” With his hand over the left, he instructed them to yell “Robby.” The crowd was a little confused at first, but once his hand started moving back and forth, and the crowd joined in, there was no stopping them. The crowd was in an uproar yelling “CAITI, ROBBY” until it ended in thunderous applause. The newlyweds made their way back down the aisle with the crowd so pumped they could barely control themselves.

It’s these unconventional and amazing moments that make me feel honored to be a part of someone’s wedding day.

Here they are making their way back down the aisle:

4. Outside of weddings, where would we find you?

Originally a California girl, I can’t seem to get enough of the beauty that is Washington. My husband and I are usually planning our next day trip down a northwest back road to chase the light. I’m constantly working on my personal portfolio and I hope to get some fine art shows together before wedding season starts.

5. When you have an hour of free time, what do you like to do?

If I’m not working on personal projects, I’m probably rolling around on the ground playing with my pooches. Lincoln + Pip can be seen regularly on my blog (http://www.kimhayesphotography.com/blog) and are probably the cutest dogs on the planet. I also have an unhealthy obsession with blog reading. If you ever see my google reader your eyes might pop out of your head. If you don’t know what a google reader is, check it out. It’s the best way to watch a TON of blogs at the same time.

6. What’s your vice, that nasty little habbit you just can’t kick?
A good Americano! I can’t seem to kick that coffee habit; it has antioxidants right? So I figure, I’m really doing myself a favor with the coffee drinking. I also can’t live without sushi and ice cream!