THE FOUNDER
Heather Cleaves
FOUNDER/OWNER/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER THE HEATHER EXPERIENCE
In the heart of San Diego, California, resides a unique blend of creativity, passion, and purpose: Heather Cleaves. A mother of two vibrant children—Luna, a bright 10-year-old with a love for playing the bass guitar and making people laugh, and Dre, a 17-year-old student athlete and passionate basketball player with an intuitive wisdom and kind heart, Heather’s roles in life don’t stop at motherhood. She is also a visionary photographer and videographer specializing in capturing the spirit and skill of youth boys basketball.
Human.Hooper.Hero
At the core of Heather’s work is her signature project, “Human.Hooper.Hero.” With her lens, she not only captures the swish of the net and the intensity on the court but goes beyond to spotlight the humanity, potential, and heroism in each young athlete. Through her captivating images and empowering narratives, she helps these young men see themselves as more than just players—they are individuals with worth, capable of making a difference in the world.
Empowering the Next Generation
Heather’s commitment to empowerment is not confined to her art; it permeates every facet of her life. As a cardiac event survivor at the age of 12 and an advocate for mental health, she goes above and beyond to foster an environment that encourages young people to take care of themselves mentally, emotionally, and physically. She is not just a photographer; she is a community builder, a storyteller, and above all, a motivator, empowering the next generation to believe in themselves. .
A Published Voice
When not behind the camera, Heather channels her creativity through words. With a strong presence on social media, she regularly shares her insights and inspirations, nurturing an ever-growing audience. Her work has also graced the pages of publications, extending her reach and amplifying her impact.
Music & Beyond
In her free moments, you’ll find Heather at her piano, translating her passion into melodies. A gifted singer and songwriter, music is yet another avenue through which she expresses her endless creativity and connects with people.
The Full Picture
But what truly sets Heather apart is her genuine belief in the untapped potential of each young individual. She is not just about taking great photos; she’s about forming lasting relationships. She doesn’t just show you the world; she lets you see humanity through her eyes. Heather Cleaves doesn’t just capture moments; she captures the essence of what it means to be human.
By choosing to work with Heather, you’re not just getting a service; you’re becoming part of a community—a community that values empowerment, love and acceptance, dreams, and above all, the beauty of human potential.