Conversations with Katie Hadley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Hadley.

Hi Katie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Photography began as a hobby for me at thirteen. I was constantly photographing my friends, cousins, and the people around me, and I quickly realized how powerful it felt to give someone images that made them feel seen and special. Even then, it wasn’t just about taking photos—it was about creating something meaningful for the people in front of my camera.

The more I photographed, the more deeply I fell in love with the medium. As I grew older, it became clear that this was something I wanted to pursue beyond a hobby. I was drawn to working with people during some of the most meaningful moments of their lives—documenting and celebrating them in a way that felt honest and personal.

I began building my business while I was still in college, intentionally connecting with wedding photographers to learn, assist, and gain hands-on experience. What started as zero weddings turned into thirty in my first full season, and it’s continued to grow from there. Over time, that early passion evolved into Reverie—a brand rooted in connection, storytelling, and the belief that photographs should feel just as meaningful years later as they did in the moment.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road—and I don’t think it ever truly is. Learning how to run a business is challenging, and honestly, it’s something I’m still learning every day. You often go into photography thinking the job is simply taking beautiful images, but there’s so much more involved behind the scenes: systems, communication, finances, growth, and balance. Each season has required new tools and new ways of working to keep everything sustainable.

My business grew quickly in my early years. I built it while I was in college in my hometown of Syracuse, New York, and each year I found myself photographing more and more weddings. It was thriving—but life shifted in a big way. I married my high school sweetheart one week before graduation, and shortly after, we moved halfway across the country to Colorado for my husband’s work.

That move meant starting over in many ways. What was once an established business became a growing one again—but this time, with experience behind me. The growth has been slower and more intentional, yet faster in other ways because I’ve already walked this road once. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to find a community of vendors here who I love and trust, and their guidance and support have played a huge role as I continue learning a new market and building momentum again.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work centers on documenting weddings and milestone moments in a way that feels honest, emotional, and timeless. I specialize in wedding photography, with a focus on capturing the in-between moments—the quiet glances, unfiltered laughter, and fleeting details that often go unnoticed but end up meaning the most.

What I’m known for is creating an experience that feels comfortable and deeply personal. I approach every wedding as both an observer and a steady presence, giving couples the space to be fully present while knowing their story is being thoughtfully documented. The images I deliver are true to life, refined, and rooted in connection rather than trends.

What I’m most proud of is the trust my couples place in me during one of the most meaningful days of their lives. Being invited into such an intimate space is something I never take lightly, and it’s shaped the way I photograph—with intention, care, and respect for each couple’s story.

What sets my work apart is the balance between artistry and authenticity. I’m not chasing perfection or performance; I’m focused on preserving how a moment actually felt. My goal is for my photographs to feel just as personal and meaningful decades from now as they do the day they’re taken.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve been deeply shaped by the photographers I’ve partnered with throughout my career. Early on, the photographers who invited me to assist and second shoot alongside them played a significant role in my growth. Their mentorship, trust, and willingness to share their knowledge helped form both my technical foundation and my understanding of what it means to serve couples well.

I also believe that God has been central to this journey. There have been moments when doors opened unexpectedly, guidance became clear at just the right time, or encouragement came exactly when it was needed. My faith has grounded the way I approach my work—with humility, intention, and a deep respect for the people and moments I’m trusted to document.

And, of course, my husband has been my steady support throughout it all—offering encouragement, perspective, and partnership as we’ve navigated both the joys and challenges of building a business together. His belief in me has made a tremendous difference in how I show up for my couples and my work.

Pricing:

• Weddings begin at $2,200 for 4 hours. Each Wedding Collection Includes a complimentary engagement session.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.photographybyreverie.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographyby.reverie/

Image Credits
Reverie Photography