Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Newman.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
My journey began shortly after we started having children. We had struggled to start a family, and at one point believed we would never have children. Two years of fertility treatments brought us our Eli and I never put my camera down after that.
He is now six and has two siblings. It goes just that fast- we are blessed to have what we thought would never be.
Photographing children slows them down, for just a second. I get to steal a moment from Father Time. I cherish every image I have. Through photography I get to remember fresh newborn toes, the way my son twirled his curls with his index finger, my daughter’s favorite blanket…
Every family has a story, and I want the opportunity to understand it and feel it with the families who trust me enough to preserve their legacy.
For me, I am not interested in a perfect family photo. My focus is on connection and relationships. Life is a beautiful mess and no family has it all together all the time- and that’s ok. Bring me your messy, your toddler tantrums, your mama snuggles that soothe the tears and daddy’s strong arms holding it all together. The love of your family is history making stuff and you deserve to have it documented in a meaningful way.
I guess what I am trying to say is I’m just a busy mom who loves chasing light and telling stories. I know you and I feel your heart. I’m walking the same path and I’m urging you to exist in photos. So what is the heartbeat of your story?
Please tell us about your art.
I hope my images share genuine, authentic connections. I want to inspire families by holding up a mirror reflecting their true beauty.
My photography style is “lifestyle”, which means it is unposed but directed. I want to get to know you and understand how you came to this moment. Expect to spend some time with me- real unhurried time. Sincerely connect and give yourself over to the creative process of lifestyle photography so that every detail can come to life.
Many people hold back- they wait for the “perfect time” to get pictures done, for an ideal weight, or for a specific milestone to happen. Instead, let’s re-imagine family photography so we can see the value in capturing whatever season of life you are in; You children want you just as you are! (Right right “unposed, raw and honest”). I can promise you that you will not regret having pictures done, but there is always room for regret if you do not.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
In some ways the life of an artist has become more difficult. I think we live in a time where social media consumes us. It doesn’t value the reality and beauty of real life. People are hungry for something of substance, but fight against presenting this idea of a perfect life.
While I appreciate the exposure that social media can provide and the voice that my website gives me to create my work and reach other families, it truly is a beast. Even I struggle to be less available and more in the moment.
I would challenge anyone reading this to step outside their comfort zone and put yourself out there. Share your work with abandon and participate in the community. Be truly and fully present. Houston is huge, and it’s easy to feel lost in the sea of voices. But if you can reach even one person and show them their beauty then you have already made a change. And that is what art is all about- sharing a voice, making a change, telling a story.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can see the stories of the families that have trusted me with their memories at the links below. Each one is etched on my heart and deeply personal to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ashleynewmanphotography.com
- Phone: (832) 299-5679
- Email: INFO@ASHLEYNEWMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/ashleynewman.photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anewman.photog
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ANewmanPhotog
Image Credit:
Ashley Newman Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
