Today we’d like to introduce you to Haley Hudson.
Hi Haley, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started taking my modeling career serious in 2019. I moved to New York and began working with various photographers, makeup artist and stylists. I attended major events like NYC fashion week, Miami fashion week and working with big brands like Express and Savage X Fenty. Since I was a freelance model, I booked all my jobs myself and always looked for networking opportunities that would elevate my career. I had to figure out what type of modeling I wanted to do like runway, print, commercial, beauty, etc. I honestly just took chances on myself, made my Instagram page my model portfolio and took it seriously. Once moving back home to Atlanta in 2021, I had to start over after having my daughter Aria and figure out the market for my modeling. That included networking with new photographers, makeup artists and brands. From then to now, my model career has elevated to working with Anastasia Beverly Hills, Graco, Motherhood Maternity, Marriott Hotels and Bobbi Brown. I am still a freelance modeling hoping to sign with a major agency when the time is right.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all. Being in NYC was a new place for me and it took time to meet people and find my way. On top of being in a new city, I had to trust shooting with new people. Sometimes, shoots would turn out bad, a collab didn’t turn out right or even my hair or makeup didn’t come out right. Then, I had to learn how to find a team I could work with, not a whole bunch of random people just to get some pictures for my portfolio. Once I got good photos for my portfolio, I would apply to castings that I saw myself a good fit for. Hearing so many “No’s” were apart of the game. I’m not going to lie, it was discouraging sometimes but I didn’t give up. That one “Yes” led to many different opportunities and gave me motivating to keep going and keep applying. Modeling is a very competitive industry and I just had to learn how to have thick skin and keep doing the best I can.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a model that specializes in beauty, lifestyle and high fashion. I am most proud of my biggest campaigns to include Anastasia Beverly Hills, Bobbi Brown, Graco, Marriott, Range Beauty, True Glory, The Doux, Savage X Fenty and Express. My friends would see my work in Target or Walmart and send me pics and be proud of my work. What sets me apart is a mix of versatility, intelligence, and a strong sense of self. I’ve spent the last five years really honing my ability to adapt—whether it’s editorial, commercial, runway, or lifestyle work, I know how to bring the right energy and look for each project. I show up prepared, respect the creative process, and I understand that modeling is a collaborative effort. I’ve also built a reputation for being easy to work with and that’s something I’m really proud of. “Naturally” in Naturally Hay is me showing up as my authentic self in the most natural way internally and externally. Most of my shoots I am in full control on require less makeup and more of myself in a natural state. I’m very aware of what I represent, and I try to use my platform to bring authenticity and intention to the industry.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’m always looking for ways to evolve and elevate my career. Modeling is more than just a job for me—it’s an art form, and I want to keep see how far it will take me. Whether it’s collaborating with new photographers, learning new poses, or even exploring different areas of fashion, I’m always challenging myself to grow. On top of being a model, my day job is being an Army Officer (Captain) with almost 10 years in. I have my undergrad in biology and currently working on my masters. I own a skincare business called Haze Essentials.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.naturallyhay.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturallyhay
Image Credits
Chad Lawson, Allen Cooley, Tatyanna Chamere, Lola Melani
