We’re here talking with lifestyle photographer and dog rescuer Clay Hayner about his work,his life and his favorite thing to do when not out shooting photographs. >> Read past interviews
ephotos: Where are you based Clay?
CH: I'm based in Dallas, TX by way of San Diego, CA.
ephotos: When did you first realize photography was your thing?
CH: At the age of 10, I found my dads’ camera and shot every roll of film I could find. I loved it. I found myself taking pictures of everything.
ephotos: Was there a photographer that inspired or influenced you?
CH: Yes, Miguel Gandert, my photojournalism professor at the University of New Mexico. He taught me to look before I shoot. Look for the decisive moment and how framing and composition can change the emotion of a photo.
ephotos: What style of photography do you shoot?
CH: Lifestyle gets me most of my work, but I also love to shoot Fashion, Travel, and Editorial Portraits
ephotos: What type of equipment do you use?
CH:: I shoot all digital. Nikon, Canon, Hasselbald, Mamiya –just depends on the job.
ephotos: What's the worst thing that has happened to you during a shoot?
CH: I once had a model faint on my set. She fell face first to the ground cracking her teeth and her head. It was horrible. Now we use nets around the sets. *smile*
ephotos: Do you have a site? Is it flash or HTML?
CH: I have a flash based web site at www.clayhayner.com .
ephotos: Do you have a rep or agent?
CH: Yes. The name of the firm is Jennifer Lafond Creative Management
ephotos: Where have you been recently?
CH: San Diego, LA and Hawaii
ephotos: Do you ever get the chance to just shoot for fun?
CH: Everyday and every job, if I’m not having fun I shouldn’t be doing this.
ephotos: What do you think will be the next big trend in the photo industry?
CH: Unfortunately, there will be more stock images being used, which means less creative imagery.
ephotos: Do you use a resource site or publication other than ephotos.com?
CH: PDN's Photoserve for now
ephotos: What are you working on next Clay?
CH: The greatest Portfolio and Promos ever. *smile*
ephotos: Is there anything else you’d like to say about yourself or your work?
CH: All my free time is spent with my wife, rescuing and fostering stray dogs for the SPCA and the Boxer Rescues, among others. Finding a home for a dog is the best feeling in the world. At home I have three rescued dogs of my own. SAVE A LIFE…RESCUE A DOG and thanks to ephotos for giving me this opportunity.
ephotos: Thanks for spending the time with us, Clay, and always remember to keep the focus!