We’re a TEAM of photographers HELPING PEOPLE UNLOCK THEIR Creative potential - one photo at a time
About Erika Hatfield
Entrepreneur, Photographer, and Educator
Hi, I’m Erika Hatfield — founder of Hatfield Photography and Next Level Photo Education.
I’ve been a professional photographer since 2010, specializing in portrait, brand, and fine art photography. My journey behind the lens began as a temporary holiday job, but quickly grew into a full-time career that’s allowed me to document thousands of families, mentor aspiring photographers, and explore the art and science of visual storytelling.
I hold a Bachelor's in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Special Education and a Certified Professional Photographer, which give me a unique perspective on how people learn especially in creative fields like photography. I’m passionate about making photography accessible, hands-on, and fun for learners of all ages.
As a lifelong educator, I don’t just want students to take great photos - I want them to understand why their images work and feel confident exploring their own creative voice. Whether I’m leading a teen workshop, developing curriculum for our photography center, or coaching a parent picking up a camera for the first time, my goal is always the same: to help people see the world in new ways and share what matters most to them.
The Story Behind Next Level Photo Education
Hands-on. Encouraging. Built for real life.
Next Level Photo Education began in 2018 as a side project - a few winter classes for kids and adults when photography was slow. When I invited those first groups to my home studio in Pennsylvania, I had no idea it would become the heart of my work.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, I brought my classes online and quickly connected with students from over 25 countries. What started small grew fast, and today Next Level Photo Education offers a wide range of learning experiences for kids online and soon, for all ages in Charleston, SC.
From preschoolers to professionals, we help learners build real photography skills through hands-on projects, expert guidance, and tons of encouragement. Our team of instructors are all working photographers who know how to make learning both fun and practical.
We believe that with the right support and a little practice, anyone can become a confident, creative photographer. Everybody takes pictures!
Meet the team
Our Amazing Marketing & Operations Coordinator
AARON SNYDER
AK Snyder Photography
Hi, I’m Aaron Snyder! I’ve been a professional photographer since 2004, capturing everything from portraits and products to architecture and commercial work. Some of my most meaningful experiences come from volunteering with Flashes of Hope, photographing children and families in hospital care.
At Next Level Photo Education, I love helping students build strong technical skills while encouraging their artistic voice. I believe great storytelling happens when creativity and technique come together — and I’m excited to help learners of all ages grow their confidence behind the camera.
PHOTOGRAPHY TEACHERS
I started as a coal miner and mechanic, but after years of helping with Erika’s photography business, I found my own passion behind the camera. In 2018, we rebranded as Hatfield Photography, and I became the lighting lead and second shooter.
I now specialize in car photography and creative techniques like forced perspective. I enjoy showing students how to get imaginative with their shots and how to troubleshoot gear when things don’t go quite as planned!
JAKE HATFIELD
Hatfield Photography
MIGUEL PEREDA
Miguel Alexandro Videography
I'm a Charleston-based photographer and filmmaker with over 9 years of professional experience. I’ve worked with brands like Jostens, Touring Car Inc., and Anytime Fitness - often managing everything from shoot planning to high-volume editing.
My teaching style is hands-on and encouraging, helping learners understand both the technical and creative sides of photography. I especially love working with students on developing their unique style and improving communication through visuals.
JULIANA HATFIELD
Hatfield Photography
I’ve been learning photography my whole life - growing up with Erika as my mom meant cameras were always around! After working in a high-volume portrait studio taking senior portraits, I started building my own portfolio and exploring how photography and fine art can come together.
I especially love painting, and I took AP Art in high school to sharpen my skills. Now I’m combining art and photography in creative ways, with future plans to become a tattoo artist. In class, I help students express themselves through bold color, visual storytelling, and hands-on creativity.
HAVE YOU MET OUR NEW MASCOTS?
Professional photographers, we invite you to share you what you know AT OUR NEW CENTER!
While our teachers handle our weekday classes, we invite other professionals to join us on the weekends and offer more variety to the community.
Guest Instructor PITCH Form
We’re Looking for New Teachers to Join Us online!
Are you an experienced educator with a passion for photography? We're expanding for Fall 2025 and are looking for certified or experienced English, Math, Science, or Social Studies teachers who also have photography skills. We also need more teachers for our youngest photographers ages 3-6.
If you love helping students express themselves creatively while building academic connections, we’d love to hear from you!
Ideal candidates:
Have teaching experience with kids or teens
Are comfortable with both photography and curriculum design
Enjoy creative, hands-on learning
Are available to teach live online classes starting Fall 2025
To be considered, please use our [Contact] button below to share your background, teaching experience, and a few sample photos.