Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashleigh Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Ashleigh thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?
Yes, I believe that through a visual sense, my work can be perceived in many different ways, which is also one of the main objectives of art itself. However, due to the vast range of interpretations and the limitations of many platforms, I have sought a new direction: working with people who express emotion through the lens. I have gained significant insight from my own personal experiences, and my ultimate goal is to convey this through different clips, visual narratives, or larger projects. I’ve come to realize that even if a reference point isn’t immediately recognized, it can still influence the outcome over time.
Ashleigh , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I introduced myself to the industry by starting my own Instagram page right out of college and grew it over time through festivals, conceptual portraits, and community involvement. Along the way, I learned the ins and outs from great colleagues and groups I met. I faced significant challenges in understanding what was considered ‘normal’—such as pricing, contracts, and boundaries—but through experience and role models, I developed a more substantial approach to my practice. I began to readjust and adapt my approach to each photoshoot, depending on the client and their overall goals. Each subject needed to be tailored to ensure that our time and energy were valued appropriately.
As a result, I found it easier to focus on advancing my technology and tools to reach new levels. With this combination, I have achieved a balance between professional discipline and creative flow to meet specific purposes and causes. I offer services including conceptual portraits, product photography, social media content, production assistance, and behind-the-scenes work. My services are open to anyone in live entertainment or events, as well as those seeking candid portraits, creative branding, product enhancement, and videography projects.
For my clients, I enjoy finding locations or styles that match their vision and goals. I also focus on styling, color schemes, and prop sets. During consultations, I discuss aspect ratios to ensure that all work is designed to fit the intended platform. I like to think outside the box, often bringing extras such as fans, hair and makeup products for minor adjustments or added comfort. My editing style is a key aspect of my work—I strive to maintain a natural look while adding a touch of flair to help each individual feel beautiful and stand out.
I am most proud of my earliest work, which I created using my phone and taught myself to edit. Over time, I feel that I lost some of my initial essence, which I am now focusing on recreating with renewed energy. One important thing I’d like people to know is that there is always a reason for what we do, even if it doesn’t make sense in the moment. It’s okay to flow with the process and add creative touches post-shoot. Most importantly, I base my editing style on each individual’s energy to ensure that I am not only capturing their essence but also allowing it to jump off the page.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is knowing that you can never truly mess it up. You are fully in charge of your work, and every mark, undo, or refresh happens for a reason. Each project is meant to teach you more about yourself and your work, so there is always a purpose behind each lesson. My biggest takeaway is to always do what is right for you, rather than conforming to what you think others would like or what is currently popular. I find it rewarding to draw inspiration from what enlightens and touches me the most, whether it’s artists, their albums, culture, style, street art, or other sources. I love integrating elements from other artists’ work into my own, creating a connection that feels aligned and divine.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
There have been many times when I wanted to quit; I’m sure we have all encountered phases in our lives or hardships that make us feel like we need to find another path. If you take anything from this, it should be that you are destined to emerge on the other side with more knowledge and breakthroughs if you persevere and recognize the blessings within the hardships. Your change in perspective can ultimately make the difference in how you channel your energy into ‘finding a way.’ Although this might seem vague, I have chosen to keep many of my hardships to myself throughout my career. I prefer to be known for what I have created rather than what happened to me along the way. Everyone faces their own battles; it’s simply about what you make of them.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: _abmmedia
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@_abrennanmindmedia
Image Credits
N/A