From Reluctance to Radiance: Photographing Erica Haray at the Cornell Botanic Gardens

I recently had the pleasure of photographing Erica Haray, the dynamic force behind Haray Sports, during a vibrant and varied shoot at the Cornell Botanic Garden. Erica, a coach, public speaker, health educator, and athlete, approached me with a bit of reluctance, a common sentiment among many of my clients. She had experienced awkward photo sessions in the past, which made her hesitant about this one. However, I firmly believe that establishing a strong rapport is crucial in creating headshots that convey confidence, relatability, and authenticity.
Erica Haray is the founder and driving force behind Haray Sports, a business that embodies her passion for health, wellness, and personal growth. With a background that spans coaching, public speaking, health education, and athleticism, Erica brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Haray Sports is not just a business; it’s a reflection of Erica’s dedication to helping individuals achieve their best selves.
Erica’s journey to starting Haray Sports began with her own experiences in sports and health. As an athlete, she recognized the profound impact that physical activity and mental well-being have on overall health. This realization fueled her desire to share her knowledge and help others. Haray Sports offers a range of services designed to empower individuals through personalized coaching, dynamic public speaking engagements, comprehensive health education programs, and athletic training.

One of the key aspects of Haray Sports is its holistic approach to wellness. Erica understands that true health is multifaceted, encompassing physical fitness, mental resilience, and emotional well-being. Her coaching sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, whether they are looking to improve their athletic performance, manage stress, or make healthier lifestyle choices. Erica’s empathetic and supportive nature ensures that her clients feel heard and motivated to reach their goals.
In addition to coaching, Erica is a sought-after public speaker, known for her engaging and inspiring presentations. She speaks on a variety of topics, including mental health, resilience, and the importance of self-care. Erica’s ability to connect with her audience and share practical, actionable advice makes her a valuable resource for organizations and events seeking to promote wellness and personal development.
As a health educator, Erica offers workshops and seminars that provide in-depth knowledge on various health-related topics. Her educational programs are designed to be interactive and informative, empowering participants with the tools and knowledge they need to make positive changes in their lives. Erica’s passion for education and her ability to communicate complex concepts in an accessible way make her an effective and impactful educator.
The launch of Haray Sports marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Erica. Her commitment to excellence and her genuine desire to help others shine through in every aspect of her business. As she continues to grow Haray Sports, Erica remains dedicated to her mission of promoting health, wellness, and personal growth.
Our time together at the Cornell Botanic Garden was a testament to Erica’s multifaceted career and her vibrant personality. We captured images that reflect her confidence, relatability, and authenticity, aligning perfectly with the values of Haray Sports. Establishing a strong rapport was key in making this session a success, and it’s a reminder of the importance of connection in creating headshots that truly represent the individual.



Erica Haray and Haray Sports are poised to make a significant impact in the world of health and wellness. It was a true privilege to capture Erica’s headshots and contribute to the visual storytelling of her inspiring journey. For anyone looking to elevate their health and well-being, Haray Sports offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach, led by someone who truly cares about making a difference.

Jamie Salima Love is a FingerLakes, NY and Boston MA based Headshot and Personal Branding Photographer extraordinaire. She has helped thousands of small businesses, brands, and entrepreneurs over her 20 yr career by creating updated photo libraries with stellar imagery. She is available for a multitude of services, whether you’re looking to work with her to simply update your Headshots, or to create an extensive Personal Branding Photography strategy and library with all the bells and whistles she’s got you covered.
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