BEECH GROVE, IN, October 01, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Johna Denault-Hayward has been recognized for achievement in portrait photography.

Mrs. Hayward has established herself as an expert in this area, earning recognition for her artistry and dedication to the craft. For 18 years, Mrs. Hayward has led Johna Hayward Photography in Beech Grove, Indiana, as a photographer, specializing in capturing the essence of her subjects through thoughtful and creative portraiture and documenting countless special moments for couples and families as a specialist in wedding photography.

Initially getting her start in 2007, one year before launching Johna R. Hayward Photography, Mrs. Hayward began as a fire department photographer, recognized as the only woman in this role in her area. In this capacity, she captured vital moments during firefighting operations, training sessions and academy classes while holding a certification as a public information officer. Mrs. Hayward's move to Indiana brought new opportunities at the Fire Department Training Network, a renowned 30-acre facility dedicated to fire service education. There, she worked for respected figures, such as Jim McCormick, Tim Klett, Mike Lombardo, David Hayward and Bob Pressler. She earned esteem within the fire community for her impactful visual storytelling through her fire photography, Second Alarm Fire Photography.

Mrs. Hayward's educational background includes an associate's degree in fine arts, film photography and digital photography from College of DuPage in 2008. These academic achievements provided her with both technical proficiency and artistic insight, equipping her for success across diverse photographic disciplines.

Mrs. Hayward's expertise is further demonstrated by her membership in the Professional Photographers Association, reflecting her commitment to professional standards and ongoing growth within the industry. Beyond professional pursuits, she is actively involved in civic organizations and community initiatives. She advocates for suicide prevention alongside her daughter and supports local art events, such as Art Walk in Beech Grove, Indiana. Mrs. Hayward's longstanding commitment to public service is further reflected in 15 years as a volunteer firefighter in Illinois. Additionally, she volunteered with an organization devoted to photographing disabled children. Over the course of a year, she engaged with children under 10 years old, forming meaningful connections and providing families with cherished memories.

Notably, Mrs. Hayward's journey into photography was influenced by her early experiences as a volunteer firefighter.

David Hayward, her husband, who currently serves as Captain with the Indianapolis Fire Department continues to encourage, support, and assist with her fire photography. Creative inclinations were also evident from childhood and encouraged by her parents. She began capturing family moments with a Polaroid camera given by her mother, an experience that laid the foundation for her lifelong passion.

Recognition for Ms. Hayward contributions includes several prestigious awards. She received a Photography Award from Kankakee Township Fire Department, was named Best Fine Art Photographer from Best of Best Review in 2020 and was named Best Children's Photographer by the Forever Green Evergreen Awards in 2026. For her volunteer commitments, Mrs. Hayward received Firefighter honors from the Dwight's Fire Department for three consecutive years. Her volunteer photography work with disabled children was also honored at a town meeting when she received an award for her charitable efforts.

The challenges Mrs. Hayward faced throughout life have shaped her approach to both art and service. She attributes much of her success to determination forged through adversity, including supporting a son with serious health issues and navigating profound personal loss. Mrs. Hayward's home is filled with photographs that preserve precious memories, serving as daily reminders of the importance of documenting life's fleeting moments.

Looking ahead, Mrs. Hayward plans to further enhance her skills in newborn photography by pursuing specialized training focused on safety and technique, an endeavor inspired by her growing family of grandchildren. Her journey reflects resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication to both her craft and community, qualities that have defined every chapter of her distinguished career in portrait photography.

# # #