By Marla Ballard

Reporter

A mother who loved taking pictures of her children uploaded them on Facebook and her friends began asking her to take photos for them of their families subsequently, a business was born. While Haley Travis does not purport herself as a professional photographer and does not use the most current photography equipment on the market, her work speaks for itself. Because of these facts, she named her business Mediocre Photography by HT, but her client list just keeps growing.

Travis began her business in 2012 and it has steadily grown by word of mouth and from attending events where merchants display their products for public viewing. One very appealing aspect of her business is her willingness to be available to her clients on weekends when their schedules are more open. "I find many people like their photo sessions on Sundays," said Travis. "Families are already dressed up for church and Sunday is usually a laidback type of day, so in-between church services I meet clients for a photo session."

Travis said she suggests different places for the photo shoot such as DeKalb County Public Lake in Sylvania, a public park, or in their own home. One of her favorite spots is the train depot in Fort Payne. "I've taken senior portraits at the train depot and they've turned out especially great when a train shows up for the photo shoot," said Travis.

One aspect of her business that makes it stand out from the pack is her nature shots with added scripture text. Travis plans to encourage customers to choose something dear to them such as their flower or vegetable garden, a special tree, or a place that is special to them. After taking the picture she can add an appropriate verse of scripture. "I feel it makes the photo more special to the customer when it is personalized in this way," said Travis. "People might like their favorite scripture added to a picture of their special place."

Travis also captures her own favorite natural setting scenes and adds inspirational scriptures to photos she likes. "I give my customers the option of purchasing a nature at its best photo with inspirational scripture added or they can request a customized photo with their scripture of choice if they would like that added feature," said Travis. "Whenever I take a photo, a scripture inevitably comes to mind."

Travis' work is not limited to just framed options, customers can enjoy her talents on an array of objects that includes; coffee cups, key chains, mouse pads, journals, and jigsaw puzzles.

To see Mediocre Photography visit Boom Town Makers Market in Fort Payne

(256-273-6929) and Indigo House gift shop in Henagar (256-657-7039). Also, go

to mpbyht.com or follow on Facebook @ Mediocre Photography by HT. Phone:

256-996-1884.