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Life & Work with Ashley Newman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Newman

Hi Ashley , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey as a photographer began nearly 10 years ago in a darkroom at Sam Houston State University (SHSU). Back then, it was just a tiny seed—an excitement for photography that was nurtured by friends, family, and professors. Inspired by film and a love of colors, I quickly discovered my passion for capturing moments that tell a story. While traditional moments are important, I’ve always been drawn to the small details that make each family unique—the little things that might go unnoticed but are so meaningful.

The turning point in my career came with the birth of my first child. It was a profound experience that pushed me to document families with purpose. I wanted to capture the fleeting moments and the deep connections that define family life. Even more so because we had been told we would never have children. I made a bold decision to leave my position as an elementary art teacher and start my own photography business not only so I could stay home with my children, but because my heart wanted others to have their memories documented in a meaningful way.

Every session I photograph tells a unique story, whether it’s an engagement, a family awaiting a new arrival, or a child taking their first steps. My approach is to create images that are genuine, heartfelt, and filled with emotion—moments that my clients can cherish for a lifetime.

Throughout my career, I’ve remained committed to learning and growing, and I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge with others. Hosting workshops and retreats is a way for me to give back and help other photographers find their own paths to success.

Today, my work continues to be driven by my love for storytelling and my desire to capture the beauty of everyday life. I’m excited for the future, the stories I’ll get to tell, and the connections I’ll make along the way.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I am today has certainly not been smooth. As with any journey worth taking, there have been bumps along the way. Most recently, I just opened my own studio, a process that took about 8 months of dedication, hard work, and a lot of perseverance. It was a major undertaking, but seeing the final result—a beautiful, light-filled space that feels like home—made it all worthwhile.

In my over 15 years as a photographer, my business has undergone many changes, including several moves. Each change brought its own set of challenges, but it also brought growth and new opportunities. Every time I’ve had to adapt, I’ve come out stronger and more resilient. These experiences have taught me to embrace change and see it as a chance to evolve and improve.

Despite the ups and downs, one thing has remained constant: my passion for documenting families in a meaningful way. No matter what challenges my small business faces, I continue to feel driven by the desire to capture those genuine, heartfelt moments that make each family unique. The road may not always be smooth, but it’s the love for what I do that keeps me moving forward, knowing that every challenge is just another part of the journey.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a photographer, I specialize in capturing the authentic, colorful, and heartfelt stories of families. My work goes beyond traditional photography; I take a storytelling approach to create images that truly reflect the love, joy, and unique connections within each family. Whether it’s a child’s first steps, a couple’s tender moments during an engagement session, or the joyous chaos of a family gathering, I strive to capture the emotions and details that make each story special.

In addition to photography, I offer family films, which allow me to bring these moments to life in a new and dynamic way. These films capture the sounds, movements, and atmosphere of a family, creating a living memory that clients can treasure forever. It’s a beautiful way to complement the still images and provide a more immersive storytelling experience.

What sets me apart from others is my love of color and my commitment to storytelling. I believe that color can evoke emotion and bring a sense of vibrancy and life to the images. My editing style emphasizes these colors, enhancing the natural beauty of each scene and adding a timeless quality to the photographs.

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Many of them have been with me for years, allowing me to document their journeys through life’s milestones—from engagements and weddings to welcoming children and beyond. Being trusted to capture these significant moments is an honor I don’t take lightly.

Ultimately, what sets me apart is my dedication to capturing each family’s unique story in a way that is both beautiful and meaningful. My goal is always to create a collection of images and films that my clients will look back on with fondness, remembering not just how they looked, but how they felt in those moments.

Pricing:

  • Storytelling Photography
  • Lifestyle Newborn Photography
  • Milestone Sessions & Cake Smash
  • Maternity Sessions
  • Birth & Fresh 48 Sessions

Contact Info:

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