New York’s Back Yard was created to celebrate the other half of The Empire State. We prefer tall trees over tall buildings and rushing rivers over rush hour. NYBY is a place to celebrate local business, local views and local love! In our “From Behind the Camera” series, we will be highlighting some amazing local photographers and seeing what art and Upstate mean to them.

What brings you to Upstate New York?

I grew up in Syracuse, went to college in Rochester and came back to Syracuse after graduation - I can’t seem to shake it.

What is your favorite place to visit in Upstate?

I think the Adirondacks are a given for anyone, just the overall winner. The views and vibes are unmatched - and don’t even get me started on the foliage porn up there in the fall. But it really depends on my mood and what I’m looking to do...Rochester- breweries, Chimney Bluffs- sunsets, ADK- hikes, Skaneateles and Keuka- boating.

What is your absolute favorite food / bar / coffee spot in Upstate NY?

Elephant & The Dove (Skaneateles) - Mexican food and margs, need I say more?

Strong Hearts (Downtown Syracuse) - the best vegan food - as a veg for over 4 years this is always my go to, especially for those milkshake cravings.

Now & Later (Syracuse- Tipperary Hill)- I’ve become a craft sour beer snob (I’m not proud of it) and Now & Later has an ungodly amount of ever rotating beers.

What inspired your interest in photography?

I’ve always been creative/artistic and always needed some sort of way to express that. Photography was just something that felt like the natural outlet for me, so I taught myself on my first DSLR in 2014 and just jumped into it.

And in the least morbid way possible, ever stumble across old photos of your grandparents when they were your age, young and in love? I have so many old photographs of that love that I cherish and I always thought it was so cool to be able to witness a moment I wasn’t around for. I want to be the person that can provide that tangible memory of two people to their future generations/legacies. DEEP, I know.

What are your favorite elements of life to shoot?

Couples. No hesitation on that.

The space held when it’s just two people offers more of an opportunity for deep connection. It’s slower, intimate and to me, the moments are just more honest and organic and that’s what I’m always going for - I crave authenticity and I think that’s what people want to have captured.

What’s your favorite part of your job/hobby?

The adventures and being outdoors.

Do you draw any inspiration from pop culture that helps with creativity like a favorite book or movie?

Not so much drawing inspiration from pop culture but more inspired by nature and other creatives.

What’s your favorite type of environment to shoot in?

Laid back, always. Calm. Indie Folk music. Golden Hour all the way through Blue Hour.

If you could think of one song that encapsulates your style of photography what would it be?

Oof, good one. I would have to say WAP by Cardi B. Totally kidding.

I think anything Novo Amor - moody, relaxed, boho inspired.

I always come back to the song “Sweetest Thing” by Allman Brown though, that will forever remain on my shoot playlist.

​What advice would you give anyone who is interested in getting into photography?

Just dive in. Never stop learning, never stop practicing and always invest in yourself.

Find a niche that you love and make it your own.

Visit them online or follow them to see all their amazing work and to learn more:

Website: www.cleighphoto.com

Instagram: @c_leighphoto