Woman Crush Wednesday: Hayleigh Longman
Untitled © Hayleigh Longman
By Dani Martin
In what ways do you capture a personal or intimate nature in your photographs?
Through making these particular images I took a lot of time getting to know my subjects and talking with them about my ideas instead of going straight in with my camera. The process of not even having the camera to begin with allowed It to become a lot about the conversation before the making of the work. This allowed me to understand each person’s story and also how to protect the sensitivities they were sharing but still communicate the message.
Maureen © Hayleigh Longman
How do vulnerability and strength come together in your photos?
These particular collections of portraits centre around people who have experienced a transition in their bodies. Using my camera to open conversation, the series of images and interviews explore how changes in the body can affect a person’s sense of ownership, confidence and comfort in their own skin. Where natural processes and unforeseen circumstances come to redefine the contours of the bodily self, both visible and under the surface. This collection of stories holds space for the strength and fragility of the human body, and how a person may find their bearings when faced with the experience of corporeal change.
Wendy © Hayleigh Longman
Untitled © Hayleigh Longman
There seems to be a pattern of neutral tones in your images. Is there a specific aesthetic that you adhere to and does this lend to any specific narrative?
No, I think the neutral tones comes through my use of mostly natural light or recreating natural light when taking peoples portraits. I use this as a way to show of different features of my subject’s characters and individual quirkiness.
Describe your creative process in one word.
Sharing
The Length Of Our Bones © Hayleigh Longman
If you could teach a one-hour class on anything, what would it be?
Would love to teach pottery, I have never taught it before! But used to be really into it when I was younger. Think it would be a really fun activity to teach and practice.
What was the last book you read or film you saw that inspired you?
The last black man in San Francisco. Based on a true story with a lovely message, the visuals are so nice and use of color is beautiful.
Rosemary © Hayleigh Longman
Untitled © Hayleigh Longman
What is the most played song in your music library?
Abusey Junction, Kokoroko
How do you take your coffee?
Black with some honey or with almond milk, depends which mood I am in!
Untitled © Hayleigh Longman
