Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlee Maclin.
Hi Ashlee, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my tangible business very recently, but I feel like it really began when I was very young. My father is my biggest inspiration. From before I could remember, my dad has always been a photographer- he specialized in landscape photography. I can still remember the smell of the camera stores where my dad had his film developed. He began as a freelance traveling writer and photographer, mostly in the hiking and camping sphere. Thankfully, he always brought me along. Since my parents divorced when I was a few months old, I got to spend every other weekend with my dad- just the two of us. We road-tripped all across the US, and he took photos along the way. Every trip we took was documented by him and his camera. We spent hours hiking and exploring new places, and I often was his “model.” After every photo shoot, which was often hours long, we would go to the nearest ice cream shop and get a scoop. Those were my favorite childhood memories, and those moments of joy flood my senses every time I pick up a camera.
I have always been artistic. Drawing used to be my art of choice from toddler age to high school. I was in the talented arts programs in my performing art magnet schools from elementary through high school. I assumed I would be an art major. But once senior year hit, I realized that my impatience and my perfectionism were not lining up. It took WAY too long to finish a piece that would fit my high standards, meaning I often wouldn’t finish projects at all. Into college, I took a long break from drawing. Social media became a new creative outlet- maybe not as fulfilling, but an outlet nonetheless. Photography has been in the back of my mind for years, but cameras and the gear were too expensive for me. Six months after graduating college, I decided to take the leap and buy my first camera. I’ll be honest; it’s still the only camera that I have. Two months after buying my camera, I was again too impatient to wait. I had to start my business! So, I just launched my photography page back in August.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Thankfully, no. One valuable thing I learned when I was a young artist was that obstacles make better art. Anytime I forgot a certain tool or made a mistake with my drawings or art projects, it really made me problem solve and try to get around it. It seriously is such a blessing, because then your art/photo/etc. can tell a story. It gives it character. I secretly get excited when a photo shoot goes awry. When the location doesn’t work out like I planned or the weather isn’t ideal, now the creative juices can REALLY flow.
Right before I launched my photography Instagram page, I started majorly comparing my photos to some of my favorite photographers- ones I have followed and admired for years. I felt so inexperienced compared to them. I felt that there was such an oversaturation of photographers- who doesn’t already know one? I stopped even thinking about my photography business because I was terrified to start. But one day, I had a genius idea for another photo shoot and couldn’t help myself. I picked up my camera and haven’t looked back since. I try not to let those thoughts invade my mind anymore, but when they do, I give myself a pep talk. I remind myself that I have to start somewhere, And I also try to remind myself what younger me learned- mistakes are GOOD!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in lifestyle, branding, and portrait photography. So, think of all those big life moments that are worth documenting- having a baby, engagements, family, starting your business, or just for fun photos. I’m so there! But I have always been someone to go the extra mile. My big mission is not to JUST take photos. I want to take photos that are unequivocally YOU, that you will love for years and years to come. Everything from the location to the outfits to the overall style are all curated to whoever I’m photographing.
I have been obsessed with personalities for quite a few years. I enjoy analyzing people and understanding their perspective on life. Don’t even get me started on the Enneagram; I can usually tell a person what their number is on the Enneagram within a few meetings! I wanted to mix this obsession with my photography obsession. From this fusion, my specialty was born, which I affectionately call “Personality Shoots.” I have clients take personality tests (if they haven’t already) and try to schedule a preliminary meeting or phone call with them. Through this process, I try to understand the essence of their personality and being and curate a photo shoot just for them.
I work full-time at Dallas Oasis, a luxury wedding venue. As a result, I am fully immersed in the wedding industry. I may use this to my advantage in the future and venture into wedding or elopement photography. We’ll see where this takes me!
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I am based in Waxahachie, Texas, but will absolutely go all over Dallas for a good photo shoot! As far as Waxahachie goes, I’m a sucker for a good small town. The town is reeking with country character and has so much space. If you need a good field location or a vintage vibe, there is no better place. The only thing I would change is that Texas, as a whole, had a few good mountains. Even just one. Then, I’d be forever happy.
As far as Dallas goes, the city has endless location options. The hardest part is finding them all and remembering where they are!
Contact Info:
