Meet Juliet Hay | Professional ballet dancer & Photographer

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

Hi Juliet, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
The root of my inspiration stems from the concept that a single photo can capture such immense beauty. The complexity and vulnerability of expression through the lens is what sparks my passion for photography. With my artistic background as a professional Ballet dancer, my initial drive to pick up a camera was to showcase the expression and movement that dancers experience in performances. My goal was to provide a different perspective that captures the essence and emotion of live art. Since then, I have carried this inspiration with me while pursuing my career and taking on any challenge. I strive to display simple concepts through photography, while sharing my light and playful spirit to anyone I work with.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Im most proud of the connection and ties that I’ve created between the two artistic careers I’ve explored. Merging these creative paths has allowed me to expand my artistic values and dive deeper and push myself to become a stronger well rounded artist. One of the biggest challenges I’ve had to face has been the surface of exploring photographic techniques. As this art is a blank canvas and has so much room to constantly push the limits, to approach it with intention and technique. One of the things I value most is having the ability to capture inner beauty and to highlight how important self love is. Not only to oneself, but the impact that love has in a bigger sense, and I hope to forever capture that beauty. Living in the heart of South Beach, between the culture and charming nature, my eyes are constantly filled with new inspiration. My unique style is centered around using the natural light, whether it be sunrise, mid-day, or sunset, I strive to create a dramatic connection between whoever I am shooting and the nature around us.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorites spots to bring friends that are visiting are ones that transport you to their specific culture. My go to spot to spend a Sunday morning is at À la Folie Café, located on Española Way, in South Beach. They serve classic french food and have a huge variety of delicious crepes as well as homemade croissants. It is the perfect neighborhood spot! Apart from breakfast, a romantic evening would be spent at Macchialina, a traditional Italian restaurant, where the ambiance completes the night. Expanding on artistic culture, the Perez Art Museum offers an eye opening happy hour on the terrace, that overlooks the bay including an outdoor art exhibit. The smooth jazz combined with the modern art brings a different side of Miami culture to life.

One of the highlights of living in the heart of South Beach, is South Pointe Park. Especially on the weekends, taking my bike for a ride to enjoy a sunset while relaxing in the park exceeds the expectation of Miami Beach. Whether it’s setting up a hammock in the grass, or sitting on the beach, its the local spot that connects people and nature.

For a fun night out, Cuba Ocho in little Havana has everything to offer, you immerse yourself in the culture of Miami. From authentic food and drinks, to dancing along with the amazing live music, it truly brings the heart and soul of Miami to life.

Nevertheless, always have to finish the trip with a sunrise photoshoot on the beach!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be where I am today without the unconditional love and support that I receive from my parents. Coming from a family of artists, naturally, I was brought up with a great appreciation for the arts, which for that I thank them for. Receiving my first camera as a gift from my father, who was a professional photographer, opened up a beautiful path in my life. My parents have done nothing but believe in me as well as cheer me on, no matter how crazy my dreams are. I also want to shoutout the amazing relationships I have made throughout the years, my friends continue to remind me of my strength and encourage me to always be my truest self.

Instagram: @jujuxphoto

Image Credits
headshot: Alexander Iziliaev