Bailey Hill shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Bailey, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think one thing that’s often misunderstood about photography is that it’s seen as a “want” rather than a “need.” We don’t technically need photos to survive things like health insurance, a mortgage, or groceries are the real necessities. But that’s exactly what makes photography so special. It captures moments, relationships, and milestones that you can’t get back, preserving your story and your legacy for a lifetime. Photos become more than just images; they’re the tangible pieces of memory that you and your family will treasure forever.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Bailey Hill, a wedding, family, and branding photographer based in downtown Elkhart. I run Blackbird and Rye Photography, where my goal is to capture moments that feel natural, joyful, and timeless not just posed pictures, but real stories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
What makes my work unique is that I focus on the experience as much as the photos themselves. I love getting to know my clients, understanding their story, and creating images that truly reflect their personalities and relationships. Photography preserves your legacy and memories in a way nothing else can.
Right now, I’m working on elevating the client experience even more from engagement sessions to wedding days making it seamless, fun, and stress-free so couples can enjoy the moment while I capture it. I’m also passionate about mentoring photographers and helping them build successful, meaningful careers in the industry.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself was with my grandma, who passed in 2020. She was my biggest cheerleader and saw a light in me from a young age. She constantly supported me in everything I’ve ever done, and that unwavering belief taught me to trust myself and my passions.
That confidence is a big part of why I do what I do today in my photography, I aim to see and highlight the light in other people’s lives, capturing moments and connections that are meaningful and lasting, just like the way she saw the best in me.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to trust the journey and not be afraid to embrace your own path, even when it feels uncertain or scary. Every experience, every risk, and every challenge helps shape who you are and what you’re capable of. I carry that mindset into my photography being fearless, trusting my instincts, and capturing moments that truly reflect the people in front of my camera. Life is full of fleeting, beautiful moments, and learning to value them early makes all the difference.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One foundational truth in my life is that everyone’s story matters, and everyone deserves to feel seen and celebrated especially in a world that feels so divided right now. I’m a photographer for everyone, and while I do say it out loud often, it also goes without saying because it’s reflected in the people I work with and the stories I capture. Inclusivity is at the heart of everything I do, and my goal is always to create images that honor who people truly are while preserving their stories in a meaningful, timeless way.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
f I laid down my name, my role, and all my stuff, what would really remain is the love I share with my husband and our three kids. It’s the laughter at the dinner table, the chaos of bedtime, the little everyday moments that make life feel full. Those are the things that stick with you way more than titles or things ever could. That’s also why I love what I do as a photographer: helping people hold onto these moments, the real, messy, beautiful parts of life that end up meaning the most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blackbirdandrye.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird_and_rye/
Image Credits
Blackbird and Rye Photography
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