Hi, I'm Ashley!
I’m Ashley; photographer, filmmaker, and the founder of The Awe Studio.
Before I ever picked up a camera, I was a writer and journalist, fascinated by the stories of the people around me. Listening to their experiences sparked my lifelong curiosity about human storytelling. I’ve always felt things deeply; even as a teenager, moments of human suffering or resilience would move me to tears. I still remember watching the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina; the heartbreak, the strength, the humanity, and feeling so overwhelmed that I drove over an hour to my mother’s house just for a hug.
That sensitivity is still at the core of who I am. It’s what allows me to see people not just as subjects, but as stories.
Motherhood deepened that even further. Becoming a mom to two girls reshaped the way I see the world; its beauty, its challenges, and the importance of representation and empathy in the stories we share. It taught me to slow down, to listen differently, and to find meaning in the smallest moments.
My love for community is tied to this same thread. I believe stories connect us. They humanize, heal, and remind us that we’re not alone. That belief is what built The Awe Studio: a space where creativity and compassion come together to tell stories that feel real, purposeful, and alive.
I create from empathy, because when we see one another fully, that’s when the magic happens.
My Family
My family has always been at the heart of my creative journey. More than a decade ago, I picked up a camera to document my first child growing up, never realizing it would become the foundation of the work I do today.
They continue to be my greatest source of inspiration, reminding me to slow down, observe, and find beauty in the ordinary. Through them, I've learned that the most meaningful photographs aren't perfectly posed; they're found in the quiet, honest moments that tell the story of a life well lived.
Being entrusted with those moments is something I never take for granted, and it continues to shape the way I approach every story I have the privilege to tell.
My Approach
I believe the most meaningful stories often exist in the moments we almost overlook.
A conversation between generations. A quiet morning at home. The creative process behind someone's work. A turning point that changes how someone sees their life.
Whether I'm documenting a person, a community, a brand, or a personal story, my goal is always the same: to create work that feels honest, intentional, and human.
Background
My background blends photography, journalism, marketing, and visual storytelling. Those different perspectives shape the way I approach every project; combining observation, strategy, and creativity to tell stories with intention.
Today, my work spans documentary photography, filmmaking, commercial storytelling, and personal creative projects.
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