READING TIME: 3 min 20 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/02/2024
UPDATED: 10/03/2024
Ashley Olson Photography’s journey into the field wasn’t a traditional one—it was a leap of faith. “At the time, I was actually towards the end of OT school,” she recalls, referring to her path in occupational therapy. "I did well in school + clinical rotations, however something just felt “off”. Although I was in a very rewarding field, I just didn’t feel fulfilled,” Listening to both her heart and her faith, Ashley made a brave decision: she dropped out of OT school, even though it meant walking away from a secure career. "It was scary and a total faith thing," she admits, but looking back, she knows it was the best decision she’s ever made.
Now, Ashley thrives as a photographer, a path that offers her not just creative fulfillment but also the flexibility to be present for her family. “I now do something that I love, that gives me purpose, and fulfillment (both socially/emotionally, but also creatively),” she explains. The move allowed her to align her life with her priorities—being a stay-at-home mom while still pursuing her passion for photography.
With a busy life as a wife and mother of two young children, balance is key for Ashley. “I started a micro-farm with my husband this year so on days when I’m not working weddings, you can find me in the garden, watering flowers, tending to our animals, and finding more projects for my husband to complete,” she shares with a smile. She embraces her dual roles, and photography gives her the flexibility she needs to prioritize her family. “Photography also gives our family the flexibility of me being a SAHM + control when/how much I want to work,” she says. “Being present/available for them will always be my top priority.”
This philosophy of balance is reflected in her approach to work. Ashley consciously limits the number of weddings she takes on each year to ensure she has enough time for both her family and her clients. “I only take on 10-15 weddings a year (15 being the max). My happy number is 12,” she explains. This allows her to fully immerse herself in each event, ensuring that her couples get her undivided attention while also preserving precious time for her family.
Ashley’s photography style can be best described in her own words: “Modern, documentary, candid, and fun.” Her approach is movement-forward and emotion-led, which sets her apart in the wedding industry. For her, it’s not just about posed portraits; it’s about telling a story through the small, fleeting moments that make each wedding unique.
She also prioritizes making her clients feel at ease in front of the camera. “Getting to know them as PEOPLE (not just wedding clients),” she says. This level of comfort and mutual trust allows her to capture the authentic, intimate moments that are the heart of her work. "Once it’s given that’s when the “magic” really comes into play,” she adds with a knowing smile.
When it comes to equipment, Ashley relies on a carefully curated selection of gear to ensure she captures every moment with precision. She works with two Canon R6 cameras and a range of lenses, including a 35mm and 70-200mm. She also uses Godox flashes and loves playing with a film camera just for fun. The mix of digital and film photography adds depth to her portfolio, allowing her to explore her creativity and bring a unique touch to her clients’ photos.
Post-processing is another important part of Ashley’s process, though she emphasizes the importance of getting things right in-camera. “I try my very best to nail lighting/settings in camera while shooting so my post is easy + quick,” she explains. Once she’s in Lightroom, she focuses on enhancing the natural colors and perfecting skin tones.
One of Ashley’s favorite aspects of being a photographer is the relationships she builds with her clients. “The lifelong connections + friendships that are made with my amazing couples,” she says warmly. Many of her clients come back to her to document the next stages of their lives—maternity, family portraits, anniversaries. “I love being able to grow alongside my couples,” she reflects.
Ashley understands that every wedding is unique, which is why she offers customized packages to fit her clients’ specific needs. Whether it’s adding extra hours of coverage or offering advice on outfits that will photograph best, Ashley goes the extra mile to ensure her clients’ vision is realized.
Collaboration is an essential part of this process. Ashley always recommends, “Collaborate with your photographer on outfits: seeking advice on what will photograph best while still making sure they feel comfortable, confident, true to them.”
Ashley’s passion for photography extends beyond her local area. When asked about her favorite destinations for weddings, she enthusiastically responds, “National parks in general (Wyoming, Montana, California, etc.). Also, pretty much anywhere in Europe or Canada.” For her, these locations offer breathtaking backdrops that inspire her creativity.
