Laura Hatcher is a retired U.S. Navy officer and a professional photographer with a rich and diverse background. Growing up as a military brat, she moved around the world with her British mother and U.S. Navy stepfather. After a distinguished career in the Navy, where she served as a diver and intelligence officer, Laura transitioned to civilian life and launched her own photography business. She now captures retirement ceremonies, headshots, and special projects, such as documenting Vietnam veterans. Laura is passionate about celebrating diversity through her 'Let's Talk About Hair' project, which explores the influence of parents and society on self-esteem and personal expression.
About Laura Hatcher
Teacher, artist, mentor, community steward—those are only a few adjectives to describe Laura Hatcher's wonderful work. From diving for the Navy to intelligence analysis to now capturing our most intimate memories through photography, Laura has dedicated her life’s work to serving others. Laura Hatcher is a nationally published event, headshot and branding photographer serving Northern Virginia. She started her photographic journey (as a hobby) while on active duty with the United States Navy. Now a retired Naval Officer, Laura owns and operates a cozy photography studio in the heart of historic Old Town, Alexandria and is enjoying her second career as a full time professional photographer and business woman. Her notable clients include the Virginia War Memorial, the United States Naval Academy (her alma mater) Alumni Association, Military Officer's Association of America, The City of Alexandria, Visit Alexandria, and Texas A&M's Bush School of Government and Public Service. She also teaches photography and business related workshops for Capital Photography Center. Laura continues to serve the Veteran community with her headshot and military ceremony photography. She is also an avid mentor and leader in her local community as evidenced by receiving two 2021 Small Business Development Center Veteran of the Year Awards for Alexandria and the State of Virginia (runner-up) and the Virginia Department of Veteran Affairs Woman Program Office 2021 Trailblazer Award.
💡 Discussion Points:
✔️ Childhood and Military Life: The challenges of growing up in different cultures and languages. As well as building resilience and coping with a sense of not fitting in.
✔️ Naval Academy and Early Career: Balancing academics and athletics as a varsity athlete. Initial struggles and eventual transition from Navy diver to intelligence officer.
✔️ Transition to Photography: Motivation to join the U.S. Naval Academy stemmed from the challenge of balancing academics and athletics as a varsity athlete. Despite initial struggles, the journey eventually led to a successful transition from Navy diver to intelligence officer.
✔️ Special Projects and Personal Growth: Emotional challenges and personal growth stemmed from documenting Vietnam veterans, while the 'Let's Talk About Hair' project celebrates diversity and explores societal influences on self-esteem.
✔️ Advice on Transitioning and Aging Parents: The importance of a measured approach to transitioning out of the military cannot be overstated. It involves considering factors such as involving aging parents in transition plans and addressing their affairs early on.
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Summary:
In a recent podcast episode, Laura Hatcher, a retired U.S. Navy officer and professional photographer, shared her journey from a military brat to a Navy officer and then to a business owner. She discussed her experiences at the U.S. Naval Academy, her career in the Navy, and her transition to civilian life. Laura emphasized the challenges she faced and the importance of mentorship. She highlighted her photography business and special projects, like documenting Vietnam veterans and her 'Let's Talk About Hair' initiative, which celebrates diversity. Laura also provided valuable advice for transitioning out of the military and managing the affairs of aging parents.
🎯 Action Items:
- Reflect on the influence of parents and society on self-esteem and personal expression, particularly regarding hair and appearance.
- Celebrate diversity and challenge societal norms or stereotypes in your community or workplace.
- If you're transitioning out of the military, take your time to figure out your next steps and don't feel pressured to have all the answers immediately.
- Include aging parents in your transition plans and address their affairs early on to ensure their well-being.
Resources:
1. Find Laura - https://www.laurahatcherphotography.com/
2. Virginia War Memorial - Learn more about Laura's work with Vietnam veterans.
3. 'Let's Talk About Hair' Project - Explore Laura's initiative to celebrate diversity.
By sharing her story, Laura Hatcher offers valuable insights and inspiration for those navigating transitions, whether from military to civilian life or in personal growth and self-expression.
