A Father’s Day Tribute From a Fort Worth Photographer: Thank You, Dad
As a family photographer in Fort Worth, I spend so much time capturing the connections between parents and children, but this Father’s Day, I wanted to take a moment to celebrate one of the most important people in my own life—my dad.
He’s not just my biggest supporter—he’s the reason I am who I am today.
My dad is an oil and gas engineer, and many of my core childhood memories revolve around the outdoors with him. From early mornings hunting to long days on the lake, and even helping him fix oil rigs, he always made time for adventure. Whether we were muddy, sunburned, or exhausted from a day in the Texas sun, those were the moments I felt closest to him.
And of course, there was NASCAR.
I’ve been watching NASCAR from the comfort of my dad’s lap (pun intended) since I was an infant. Wrapped in his arms as the buzzing sound of cars roared from the TV, it quickly became one of our favorite father-daughter traditions. These Sundays usually ended with a nap—mine, not his—but he always woke me up in time for the final lap. Victory Lane wasn’t just for the drivers—it felt like a small win for us, too.
Even when I left for college, NASCAR didn’t leave our relationship. Phone calls home included full race recaps and passionate updates on his favorite drivers. To this day, if you take a ride with him, don’t be surprised to hear a random “Green, green, green—go, go, go!” or “Clear all around!” shouted from the driver’s seat. His love for the sport is so deep, it inspired him to teach me how to fix cars. It was a skill that made me feel confident (and, let’s be honest, probably intimidated a few boys along the way).
My dad has always been there—through every high and low—and though we’ve had our tough moments, his pride in his children has never wavered. He’s the kind of dad who shows up, cheers loudest, and loves fiercely.
If you ever meet him, he’ll greet you with a playful “Talk to me, Goose,” quote from Top Gun and light up talking about his trip to Crooked Island in the Bahamas. He’s also the reason for our spontaneous late-night dance parties to the songs of his childhood. And yes, just last week, he confirmed that I got my name—Haley—from an Eminem song. If you know, you know.
This Father’s Day, I’m not just thinking about the incredible dads I get to photograph here in Fort Worth—I’m thinking about my own. He’s taught me how to work hard, how to stand up for myself, and how to always, always find time for the people you love.
Looking for the Perfect Father’s Day Gift?
Photos make the perfect keepsake. Whether it's a father-daughter session, a family portrait, or candid moments at home, let’s celebrate the dads who make life a little louder, a little crazier, and a lot more meaningful.
📸 Book your Father’s Day session today with Haley Wacker Photography—your Fort Worth family photographer.
