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as, and evolving trends that push kids away
from traditions like senior portraits.
So it comes back to relationships. In spite
of the competition and distractions, there
will always be people who appreciate the art-
istry of a professional photographer who is
dedicated to bringing out each subject’s beau-
ty. “You have to find those people and speak
to them,” says Haynes. “You can’t get discour-
aged. There will always be competition, but
your job is to work harder and have a voice
that speaks louder over all of that noise.”
People want to know they are valued, she
adds. It doesn’t matter how old they are—
five or 15 or 50—they want that sense of
worth and encouragement. “The more we
can show up with our cameras but also put
down the camera and really see people, the
more successful we’ll be. That is how a busi-
ness stands the test of time.” •ikeandtash.comTHE STREET TEAM
A senior model program in power mode
Ike & Tash’s senior model program
runs almost like a sorority for high
school girls. Tash Haynes describes
it as a mentoring and sisterhood
program. She and Ike provide the
adult guidance, and the girls in
the program mentor younger girls
coming onto the team.
The program includes social
gatherings, community service
projects, and Sunday dinner once a month. Every year, Tash and Ike take the team on a
four-day trip to a different city. Participants are invited to take ownership of the brand
during themed photo sessions that include professional hair, makeup, and styling.
“Obviously, the photography is an important element, but there is so much more
to the Street Team that the portraits are the last thing people think about,” says
Tash Haynes. “It’s a way for people be part of something where they get a real sense
of community.”