About Hayes & Fisk Photography

For nearly three decades, Hayes & Fisk Photography has set the standard for luxury portraiture, creating commissioned heirloom portraits that blend the precision of modern photography with the timeless artistry of classical oil painting. Founded in Richmond, Virginia, the studio is known for its deep commitment to storytelling, legacy preservation, and world-class craftsmanship.

From high-end wall installations to custom wedding commissions, our work celebrates the essence of family and the power of legacy. Our portrait clients span the globe—including families in China, Italy, England, Ireland, Canada, Korea, the Philippines, and Mexico—who trust us to create artwork that honors their stories and elevates their homes.

Our unique ability to fuse emotion, heritage, and fine art has earned Hayes & Fisk a reputation as one of the most respected and sought-after portrait studios in the world.

About Mary Fisk-Taylor

Mary Fisk-Taylor is one of the most accomplished and influential voices in professional photography today. She is a Portrait Artist, business strategist, educator, and co-owner of two highly profitable photography studios based in Richmond, Virginia.

Mary’s accolades are among the highest in the industry. She holds the titles of:

• Honorary Master of Photography, awarded by Professional Photographers of America (PPA)

• Master Photographer, Master Wedding Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)

• Fellow and Educational Associate of the American Society of Photographers (ASP)

• StoryBrand Certified Guide and Certified Mindset Coach

• Google Analytics & Ads Certified, HubSpot Email Marketing Certified

A passionate advocate for both artistry and entrepreneurship, Mary was the 11th person—and only the 3rd woman—to receive the prestigious PPA 1000 Merit Bar for outstanding service to the industry. She is also a member of the Society of XXV, an invitation-only group recognizing the top 25 photographers in the world.

Mary co-founded Hayes & Fisk Photography, a home-based studio known for its luxury family portraiture and custom weddings, and Real Life Studios, a boutique event and high school senior photography brand developed with her mother and sister. Together, her businesses serve a wide range of clients while maintaining a commitment to excellence, customer service, and profitability.

A multi-time Platinum and Diamond Medalist at the International Photographic Competition (IPC) and a Grand Imaging Award Finalist, Mary’s image competition accolades include:

• VPPA Photographer of the Year

• PPA Photography of the Year (Bronze, Silver, Gold)

• Loan Collection Images

• Kodak Gallery, Fuji Masterpiece, and LexJet Awards

She is a PPA Approved Juror and an outspoken champion of image competition as a path to mastery. Her volunteerism has been recognized with numerous honors, including the PPA National Award, Charles H. (Bud) Haynes Award, Virginia Award, PPA Charities Impact Award, and the Legacy Award for her philanthropic work and dedication to photographic education.

Mary currently serves on the Board of Directors for Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the Virginia PPA Board, and the Society of XXV Executive Committee. She is the past President of PPA Charities, and has led international humanitarian missions as a lead photographer for Operation Smile.

A Personal Note

Mary lives in Richmond with her husband, Daryl, and their two children, Alexandra and Jackson. She deeply values the flexibility and fulfillment that owning a successful, profitable business has brought to her life—and is passionate about helping other creatives achieve the same. From keynote stages to one-on-one strategy sessions, she continues to educate, mentor, and inspire photographers around the world.