GOOD TO MEET YOU

ABOUT LEIGH

CHARLESTON WEDDING, ELOPEMENT & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

Leigh Hayward leaning against white column wearing long green dress

MY APPROACH

Hello! I’m Leigh Hayward, your storyteller and award-winning wedding photographer. I specialize in capturing the romantic, elegant, and sophisticated moments that define your love story. Based in Charleston, I photograph weddings, elopements, and portraits with a light, bright, and true-to-color style that creates timeless imagery. My goal is to authentically document every beautiful detail, whether it’s a grand celebration or an intimate elopement.

I absolutely love what I do, and it shows—many people comment on my constant smile at weddings! The most rewarding part of my job is hearing heartfelt messages from my clients and seeing the photos I’ve captured become treasured memories..

INQUIRE TODAY

My Origin Story Begins

01.

MOVED TO EUROPE

My passion for photography started when my grandfather gave me a vintage film camera while I was studying art in London. This led me to switch majors to photography and travel through Europe and Asia with a camera in hand.

02.

I TOOK THE NEXT STEP

After graduating, I worked at a fashion studio in the UK, which helped me build confidence and communication skills. In 2006, I returned to the US and launched Leigh Hayward Photography.

woman stands crossing arms with white jacket over shoulders

03.

THIS IS WHERE I AM

Today with over 25 years of professional experience, I excel in making clients feel comfortable in front of the camera. You can confidently count on me to pose and direct you, as well as capture all of the candid and intimate moments of your wedding day.