Hello! I’m Taylor Haney, the heartbeat behind Clutch Chick Media. My adventure into automotive photography began in 2015 with Girls 'N Garages magazine, a platform celebrating women's role in the automotive industry, from fervent enthusiasts to pioneering leaders. This venture lead me to events across the east coast and twice to the SEMA show in Las Vegas, allowing me to weave the extraordinary tales of incredible people through my lens and words.
During my college years, as a graphic design major with a photography minor, I experienced some of my most liberating moments as a photographer. The freedom to experiment with techniques, many of which remain in my arsenal today, was exhilarating. My journey even took me to Rome, Italy, for a study abroad program, enriching my understanding of Roman culture, art history, and igniting my passion for travel and connecting with new people.
The Spark That Ignited My Passion for Racing Photography
My foray into racing photography was sparked by an assignment featuring Rachel, a remarkable woman and drifter, with her bright pink Nissan 240sx s13 in Englishtown, NJ. Until then, my photography was limited to friends' cars, a drag racing event, and a handful of car shows. Rachel's story, how drifting and the automotive community helped her overcome drug addiction and realize her strength, was deeply inspiring. She invited me to a drift event, marking my first experience at East Coast Bash.
The grassroots drift scene immediately captivated me. The atmosphere at Englishtown Raceway, with its symphony of engines and tire smoke, exuded a sense of freedom and festivity. It was a revelation – a celebration of community, passion, and the pure joy of drifting. That event wasn't just my introduction to the scene; it was the moment I knew I needed to dive deeper into this world. The thrill of riding in a drift car for the first time was the final nudge I needed to eventually get a drift car of my own.
Exploring the Breadth of Racing
My exploration didn't stop at drifting. I've since covered a spectrum of motorsport events, from Formula Drift to autocross and grassroots drift events. Each discipline has its own rules and nuances, but the underlying spirit – the camaraderie and collective passion of the people involved – remains constant. The media plays a crucial role, sharing the day's triumphs and trials, celebrating the sport, and inviting others to join in the excitement.
Supporting local organizations that provide a safe space for these activities is vital. They embody the true spirit of the sport, often driven by individuals who are racers themselves or deeply passionate about the automotive world.
Driving Change and Empowerment
While living in Memphis, I joined Traction Optional, a group ripe with potential yet facing the challenge of replicating the unique energy I experienced in Englishtown. It's a reminder that the essence of a great venue – the indefinable "stuff" that keeps people coming back – is cultivated, not simply acquired. Supporting the sport, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers, and advocating for the inclusion of more women in racing have been integral parts of my mission.
In recent years, I've witnessed a transformative shift: women are not just participating in motorsports; they are redefining it. This change is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the breaking down of barriers, a narrative I’m proud to be a part of.
Where the Road Takes Us
That's a glimpse into my world. From capturing the essence of automotive events to navigating the thrilling bends of the racetrack, my journey is a testament to the power of passion, community, and the pursuit of storytelling. I look forward to sharing more adventures, insights, and the stories of the incredible people I meet along the way.
See you out there!