Hi, I'm Jo!
I'm a proud mom of two boys and celebrated 23 years of marriage with my husband, who has supported my photography journey from day one. I'm also a foodie with a "dessert-first" mindset (life’s too short not to!).
My passion for photography began in high school when I first picked up my dad’s camera. After exploring different careers, I returned to photography and gained valuable experience in both commercial and boutique studios. That's how Jo Hayes Images was born.
While starting my own business came with challenges, I’ve embraced every opportunity to grow. I’m a proud member of PPA, PPNC, CFC, and CAACC. Charlotte has been a wonderful community for connecting with fellow creatives and building lifelong friendships.
At Jo Hayes Images, we specialize in candid, lighthearted photography that captures authentic moments. I’m also proud to represent my Asian American heritage, with a passion project focused on cataloging authentic Indigenous Filipino costumes. My goal is to make every person I photograph see their beauty.
In the next few years, I see my business continuing to grow, helping build model portfolios and capturing community events, fundraisers, workshops, and more. My approach is all about creativity, professionalism, and ensuring my clients enjoy the process.
Skip the stress and hire me for your next event!
(I get by with a little help from my friends! Professional photos of me thanks to Angela, Jim @jc_of_clt, and Jeremy @photographybyJLewis)
The 2024 Charlotte Fashion Collective's Photographer of the Year
What an honor, a surprise, and a gift!
Thank you to my supportive family and friends, the lovely CFC community of models, photographers, and designers.
This was one memorable night!
The 2025 Carolina Fashion Awards' Photographer of the Year
Full circle moment! Two years ago, I was new to the Charlotte fashion community, new to the Charlotte Fashion Collective, and Todd invited me to the Carolina Fashion Awards. I was in awe of the fashion and creative community celebrating together in the Carolinas.
Fast forward to May 2025, I was recognized as the 2025 Carolina Fashion Awards Photographer of the Year…Unreal, mind-blowing, did I manifest this?! Knowing that this award is from peer nominations and community recognition means everything to me.
I’m thankful for so many things - the unwavering support of family and friends, photographers that inspire me to create and grow, and the countless lovely humans that I get to collaborate with in front of my lens.
This is for the big-haired high school girl in the 90's who had multiple subscriptions to Seventeen, YM, and Teen Vogue magazine and dreamed of one day being a part of the fashion world!
Dream Big, Friends!
This photo of Todd and me was captured by my talented friend and fellow photographer, @carterphotographyclt.
RECENT WORK
Inspiring Across Generations, Engage Forward Conference
Ascend Charlotte Metro proudly presents the 2025 Inspiring Across Generations (IAG) Conference, celebrating 20 years of Ascend's national impact and charting the path for the next 20+ years of leadership. This year's theme, Engage Forward, reflects on their legacy, while equipping today's professionals to lead into the future with purpose, influence, and innovation.
There were inspiring fireside chats, a dynamic speaker, and meaningful connections throughout the day. Grateful for the opportunity to capture these moments at the beautiful TIAA campus.
Event Coverage, TIAA, Charlotte Corporate Campus, Ascend Charlotte
Charlotte International Arts Festival (CIAF) with CLTure NC
The colors, the camaraderie, and the culture...the community came out and it was a great day! Here are some of my favorite moments.
Thank you, Cameron, for the trust!
Meet Alex Mitchell
When I was hired to photograph this project, I knew I had to bring my best. Meeting Alex for Ball State University’s alumni feature, “Where Are They Now”, was such a joy. Her sweet family welcomed me right in, and it was clear how much love and support surrounded her.
As we talked, Alex shared the personal experience that inspired her career in social work. Having been a caregiver for my dad years ago, I felt an instant connection to her story.
For Alex, the spark came from her grandmother—lovingly known as Mimi—who spent her last 28 days in the ICU. Walking through that journey opened Alex’s eyes to the unseen challenges of end-of-life care, and it became the driving force behind her passion for social work with a focus on gerontology.
See the full feature and more of Alex's story.
Ball State University, Muncie, IN, Commissioned Photoshoot Editorial
AI Summit 2025
A great collaboration that made this the first in Charlotte!
A day full of informative speakers, robust networking, and supporting local vendors.
Event Coverage, Parr Center, CPCC
WISH Society 2025 Upstate Awards Luncheon
A Celebratory Brunch To Celebrate The Honoree's Funding Achievements
Such a heartfelt celebration of the amazing women making a difference, one wish at a time. I’m so thankful I captured these moments and was in the room with so many inspiring ladies. Congratulations to all the honorees!
Event Coverage, City Club Greenville, Greenville, SC
Elon University's 2025 Top 10 Under 10 Alumni Awards
One of Elon’s Top 10 Under 10 Alumni Award recipients was Yasmine Arrington Brooks—Founder and Executive Director of ScholarCHIPS and a 2023 CNN Hero. Such a well-deserved honor for someone making a real impact!
It was incredibly inspiring to be in a room full of changemakers. I feel lucky to have captured this incredible honor.
Event Coverage, Elon University, Elon, NC
Festa Italiana 2025
St. Anthony Festa Italiana Charlotte is a food and wine festival that donates its proceeds to the Nevins Center, helping to create opportunities for people with special needs and disabilities.
What a big turnout! Delicious Italian food, live music, and a community coming together, now this was my jam! I’m grateful to have been a part of it!
Event Coverage, Uptown Charlotte
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Turning Images Into Memories
