OH, HELLO THERE!
Welcome to my website!
I'm Ashley, but you can call me Ash. I am based in Boston, Massachusetts (USA) but I would never turn down the opportunity to travel (within New England)! I'm a full-time toddler teacher and I run my photography business on the weekends (Fridays & Saturdays)! Although I studied photography in college, it wasn't until my dad's passing that my photography took on a deeper meaning.
When my dad passed away in 2015, my life hit an all-time low. I was diagnosed with depression and was in a really bad place. I could barely get out of bed. I had no desire to move, no desire to live. After almost taking my own life, I decided I needed to focus on myself for a bit. I checked into a woman's facility for 6 weeks, so I could become the best version of myself. When I completed the program, I focused more on photography, first as a hobby. Then, within my first year of opening my business, I was booking real clients!
Photography gave me an escape, a purpose.
Whether you're booking a boudoir session to feel like the badass that you are, a maternity session to document the beautiful life growing within you, or an erotic sesh with your partner, I will be there to capture it; My goal is to provide an experience that makes you feel comfortable and valued; without judgement! I want to tell your story because I know it's a beautiful one.
HISTORY BEHIND SEA YOU SMILE
What is the meaning behind the name "sea you smile"?
My dad loved to fish. He would take me and my mom to Castle Island, in Boston, all of the time. I still remember our weekly fishing trips (just me and him). I'd help my dad put the bait on the rod, throw the line and impatiently wait (I mean, I was a kid, ha). When I caught my first fish, I was pretty young (maybe 6) and I still remember the joy it brought to my dad's face... he was so proud.
My dad spent all of his extra time seaside, which is why I chose "SEA" as opposed to "see". As for the smile part, I wanted to let clients know that capturing smiles is what brings me joy, just like fishing brought joy to my dad's life.
How did you come up with the name?
I was actually scrolling through "nautical business name lists" and came across fishing boat names. "See Me Smile" was one of the options, and I knew that was I wanted to re-brand as, with a bit of my own twist.
How do you cope with depression?
Simple. Photography, Nannying and an (excellent) Support System!
When I lost my dad, I realized the only photos I had with him were from when I was little (newborn-6ish) and then ONE picture from my high school graduation. I wish I had more memories of me and him together... and I never want a client of mine to feel like they didn't document enough of their lives. You see, I love capturing memories that people can cherish daily. Seeing the joy on people's faces when I capture their most precious candid moments, is the reason why I do what I do. Even on my worst days, a session with a client always puts me in a better mood. Don't get me wrong, I still have my days when I feel like my world is caving in, but I know my dad would want me to push forward, and that keeps me going. On the flip side, there's a special joy to watching a child grow and having an impact on how they grow. I love being a mentor, a teacher and generally someone children will look up to when they need to make a tough choice. Children were my first passion, but photography is not too far behind!
Plus, now I live to make him (and my mom) proud. I know he's looking down on me saying "that's my girl" <3
Do you struggle from depression and need someone to listen? Let's be friends :)
- click the smiley face to send me a message -