Hi! Let me introduce myself...
I’m Haverlee, (hay-verlee), a solo parent of three wild things, adventure seeker, and photographer. My photography career was birthed from many years of pain. My life derailed and everything felt unstable and uncertain. The more difficult things became, the more I clung to small moments of beauty. And I could always find beauty in people and in nature. Focusing on others instead of my own dark days brought me joy every time without fail.
I always knew I was creative but it took me a while to find my niche! As I ventured further into photography, everything fell into place. It was as if I already knew the language, I just had to find the words.
I got remarried in 2023 in the mountains of North Carolina to the love of my life, and walked down the aisle to Brandi Carlile's, Beginning to Feel the Years. Jacob is steady, safe, and sure. We're maintaining a long distance marriage until our kiddos have all launched from the nest, but thankfully this career allows us plenty of freedom and flexibility. And he's now my best 2nd shooter! Life continues to delight and surprise me and I'm here for the beautiful mess of it all.
I’m an Enneagram 2w3 and an INFP. If you don’t speak the lingo, that means I’m into helping people, I feel everything deeply, and I view the world with childlike curiosity. I’m a total mix of over enthusiasm and quiet observation.
Favorite TV shows: Normal People & Bad Sisters
Favorite Movie: About Time (the only movie I've rewatched multiple times)
Favorite National Park: Yosemite (sunsets from Sentinel Dome are a life highlight)
Favorite Books: So hard to choose. The Bronze Horseman, The Heart's Invisible Furies, The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell, These Silent Woods...I could discuss books for days on end.
I love connecting deeply with humans and hearing people’s stories. I’d love to have the chance to tell a chapter of yours.
Let's chat!
If you're inquiring about wedding photography, please head to the wedding page and fill out the more extensive contact form at the bottom of that page..
Where you can also find me:
A featured interview within:
“Haverlee was so amazing to work with. We gifted my in-laws a family photo shoot after the addition of two grandbabies. With a fifteen month old and a six month old, it was no small task. She was so amazing, working to make sure she got the perfect shot, all while making the babies smile, and focus. She was patient, kind, and just made it so easy. I could not recommend Haverlee enough!”
-Breeann
Goodness, I adore photographing this family. And per usual, I love the images twice as much when a little time has passed and I’m not so close to them. From engagement, to wedding, to welcoming Rory into their family, I’ve witnessed some big milestones for them. 😌
Another wedding on the blog. I absolutely loved revisiting this day. These two are just adorable and so special. Allie was the most stunning classic bride. Every minute of the day was full of emotion and joy. Definitely a highlight from last year. 😌✨
Photo assistant: @jacobncia
Venue: @carperwinery
Hair: @kelseykleinhair
Makeup: @ivyboydmakeup
Coordinator: @budgetbrideia
Dress: @kathrynsbridal
Less than a month until my cousin’s wedding. It’s going to be SO WEIRD to attend a wedding as a guest. I’ve actually never done it, since becoming a wedding photographer. The goal is to make it through the weekend without being *that person* who says, “I’m her cousin, the wedding photographer” 😂🫣 . Photographers, is it possible to be present instead of watching every move the photographer makes?? 😅
Hot take no. 2: SKIP THE DIP
This is not a criticism whatsoever, just an observation. My favorite recessional photos are the smiles plastered on your faces right after they announce you husband and wife. Somewhere along the way it became really trendy to do a dramatic dip kiss halfway down the aisle. It’s really tough to execute perfectly, and most often it’s not. It distracts couples from the epic moment of elation and we don’t get to see your faces during it. My advice would be to do a simple kiss at the very end of the aisle. Or better yet, don’t stage anything at all and just let the joy and love take over. A perfect time for a dip kiss? Your grand entrance to your reception, or at the end of your first dance.
Photographers and couples, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this one!
Posting late because I just wrapped up this wedding and I couldn’t wait to share. I want to get remarried just so I can wear a billowy dress like Kaitlyn’s. Everything about the day was emotional and cinematic. Their families were so loving and kind, and they were both overwhelmed to tears throughout the day. This place carries a lot of history for their families. It was an honor to document another chapter here for them.
Photo assistant: @jacobncia
Hair: @design_masters_salon
Makeup: @oko_bojibreeze
Dress: @anelegantaffairbridal
Photographing love and life in Central Iowa, western north carolina, and beyond.