Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlee Harris.
Ashlee, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always had an interest in photography, but didn’t invest in a camera until about two years ago. I actually bought my camera with the intention to take along on vacations with me. However, I’ve always loved portrait photography so I thought I would give it a try and practiced on a few of my friends. Once I felt more comfortable behind the camera, I began to expand my portfolio by doing collaborations with models I found through Instagram. I messaged a few models and one of my first responses was from Dakota Zihuatanejo. Dakota has played a really important part in my photography journey, being the first one to take a chance on me. She has been an amazing mentor, supporter, and friend in the community.
I’ve also had the opportunity to do client work such as graduations, birthdays, and couple photoshoots. Seeing my work posted on different platforms by models and clients makes me immensely happy and proud of my work. I’ve seen and felt myself improve in just the last few months so I’m excited to see what the future holds for me!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I think my biggest challenge would be balance. Trying to find time for school, work and photography can be really difficult at times. I have a habit of overbooking myself just because I get so eager to bring my visions and concepts to life. However, over the past few months, I’ve struggled with my mental health. Anxiety is something I’ve always dealt with so it can be difficult to meet new people, drive to new locations, and being in fear of letting someone down. I am immensely proud of overcoming some of these fears.
Anxiety can make small fears feel a lot bigger so, setting goals and praising myself for these accomplishments helps me get over some of these obstacles. I’ve learned to not be ashamed of taking breaks and that it’s ok to take care of yourself first. It’s easy to become frustrated with these struggles but with the support of those around me, I’m able to continue to create and show my art with the world.
Photography has really given me an outlet for my anxiety and a chance to showcase my creativity and passion for art. For that, I am thankful.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I specialize in portrait and fashion photography. I’ve really enjoyed finding my style and who I am as a photographer. I think I am most proud of how far I’ve come. I look back at my older photoshoots and I really see my improvement and growth.
I believe what sets me apart from others is my relationship with my models and clients. For instance, when I am collaborating with a model, I find it really important that both the model and I get to share our visions and concepts with each other so it brings out both parties creativity. I think of my models and clients as friends, and I think it’s important to have a good relationship!
What were you like growing up?
Like I stated before, I grew up with awful anxiety, being creative was a way I positively let go of my frustrations. I took a photography class in high school, which I enjoyed, but it wasn’t until years later that I truly began to pursue it as a passion. My family and friends would always tell me how creative I was but I never really saw myself as that until I started to get into photography. It’s been such an amazing experience to show my art and see it come to life. Even though it’s had its ups and downs, I’ve grown to love photography and I’m grateful for the opportunity to show it to the world.
Pricing:
- $75 an hour or $120 for 2 hours for local (The Colony, Frisco, Little Elm, North Plano)
- $90 an hour or $150 for 2 hours for travel (Dallas, McKinney, Denton, Fort Worth)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ashleeharris.myportfolio.com
- Email: ashleetaylor9263@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashharrisphoto/
Image Credit:
Dakota Zihuatanejo, Jordan Reyes, Jillian Antonia, Alia Miller, Rachel Dang, Melody Randles
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas 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.
