Letter from Hayley

My name is Hayley Ellen Day and I am a photographer, storyteller, graphic designer, and videographer. I went to a small college in Western New York, but now call NYC my home. I spend most of my time traveling and documenting different parts of the world, from West Africa to East Asia. The people that I meet are the core of my work, they are beautiful, talented, and passionate people. Photography and videography are intimate things! It takes a lot for someone let you take their photo and to feel good about their photo; let’s be honest I don’t let many people take my photo either.

To this day I remember every single person I have photographed- from the clothes on their backs, the emotions in their eyes, and the details of their stories that they have shared with me. Stories that have made me laugh, cry, and simply just been in awe of the fact that someone has entrusted me with their words. But I do not communicate stories of destruction, I communicate and display stories of dignity and hope. My role in this world is to give a voice to others; a voice with grace, beauty, and honor. And it’s something I will never take for granted.

When looking at my work I hope you see a bit of me in there as well, because when I look back I am able to remember how they made me feel and how I made them feel- it was love.

To those who have been a part of my documentary work:

You are my family and we will always be in each other’s lives. Thank you for sharing your journeys with me and being a part of mine. I love you my brothers and my sisters.