Meet Dana Hanley | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dana Hanley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dana, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Becoming a mother changed everything for me. It gave me a deeper understanding of love, life, and the beauty of every moment. My children are the heart behind my brand and the reason I picked up a camera in the first place. Documenting our journey together taught me how to capture the precious, fleeting moments that define motherhood. Through my lens, I have been able to create memories for other families that reflect the love I have for my own.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think in a field like photography, we all have our own style and perspective. That’s what is so beautiful about being an artist. I’m inspired by so many other photographers however, I am always staying true to my own art while being inspired and I think that’s important and one of the reasons I stand out. My work is hopefully recognizable. Someone can see one of my photos pop up on their instagram feed and know automatically that’s one of mine. I would say my brand could be described as soulful, colorful with some hint of moodiness and warmth, and emotion.

I think to get to where I am right now, which is currently fully booked, it took a couple years of hustling and really doing some things for free but with full creative control so I could build my brand and attract the clients that want to work with me. I also have learned that it’s important to create a healthy work life balance so that my cup is filled as a professional and artist, but also have the time with my children.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hmmm… such a good question. I would definitely check out downtown Toluca Lake. My husband and I love all the restaurants on that strip, and do date nights a lot over there. We also love the beaches. I would recommend visiting Point Dume/Zuma Beach. We love going there for the day with the kids. For sightseeing, I recommend LACMA, hiking at Fryman or Runyon Canyon. The Hollywood sign is also something iconic to check out. Universal Studios and Disneyland!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Aside from my own children, who have shaped me as a photographer, I would say my community and my mentor Billye Donya. I wouldn’t be where I am in my business without all the families who let me capture them for fun on my camera for years. As I was finding my own way, I was able to develop a beautiful mentor/mentee relationship with my own family photographer who took me under her wing. Billye Donya has helped me grow in my technique, editing style, and finding my own voice through my art.

Website: https://www.danahanleyphotography.com

Instagram: danahanleyphotography

Image Credits
All photos taken by Dana Hanley Photography except personal photo.
Billye Donya Photography (took headshot)