We recently connected with Ashley Gauthier and have shared our conversation below.

Ashley, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

Mission:
At From The Ash Tree, my mission is to redefine the narrative around self-perception through the lens of photography. I believe that every individual, couple, and business holds a unique beauty that deserves to be celebrated and showcased. My approach centers on capturing emotive experiences that resonate deeply, transforming the way people see themselves in front of the camera.

As a “Visual Medicine Woman,” I am dedicated to creating artistic expressions that act as a form of medicine for the soul. Each session—whether it’s an intimate portrait, retreat photography, or brand storytelling—aims to infuse passion and authenticity into the experience. I specialize in crafting narratives that help grounded individuals and businesses gain the confidence to see themselves through the eyes of others, emphasizing the beauty that may often go unnoticed.

With a strong desire to explore new horizons, I travel to uncover beauty in every moment and seek connections with other small businesses, both similar and different from my own. At From The Ash Tree, I am not just a photographer; I am a storyteller committed to using the healing power of visual art to inspire confidence, connection, and a renewed sense of self, helping you discover the beauty that lies within and around you.

The Story Behind My Mission:
Having spent over 15 years immersed in the world of photography, I found my passion for capturing life’s moments under the umbrella of other businesses. However, a sense of divine timing and a yearning for something deeper stirred within me, prompting the leap to establish my own venture, From The Ash Tree. Just a year and a half ago when I started my own business, I wanted to be more than just another photography studio; I wanted it to be a haven for meaning and emotion.

As I began working closely with people from all walks of life, I noticed a recurring theme: the insecurities many individuals held about their own beauty and worth. Curiosity drove me to ask questions, and in doing so, I unearthed the roots of those feelings. It became evident that so many were unable to see themselves as the genuinely beautiful soul that they are. I knew that I was called to create a shift in this narrative.

My vision for From The Ash Tree was to provide more than visually stunning images; I sought to create impactful experiences that foster healing, transformation and narrate a story. I wanted every person who stepped in front of my lens to leave with not only beautiful photographs but also an inner sense of confidence and renewed self-love.

To amplify my mission, I began collaborating with both emerging and established businesses, understanding that community and support are crucial to propelling our shared visions forward. We are a collective of passionate individuals striving to create change, earn a living, and imbue meaning into our work. Every day, we chase our dreams and enjoy the process, knowing that together we can make a difference.

As I travel to seek new horizons and forge connections around the world, the pieces of my story continue to shape my mission. Each job and every client I welcome into my life reminds me of the purpose behind my art. With every click of the shutter, I remain committed to transforming insecurities into celebrations of self, inspiring those I photograph to recognize the beauty that lies within them. This mission is not merely my work; it is my calling, and I am honored to share this journey with others.

Ashley, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey into the world of photography began at a young age, rooted in a passion for capturing the beauty of the human experience. I always carried a camera with me, whether it was a Polaroid or a traditional film camera, capturing candid moments of people wherever I went. The thrill of taking a photograph was not just in the capturing but also in sharing that moment; I made it a ritual to drive 30 minutes to the nearest store to develop two copies of each photo—one for myself and one for the person in the image. This was my way of giving back and connecting with others through my art.

After high school, I worked at a drugstore as a film to photo developer, where I honed my skills and eventually became the manager of the photo department. This role was instrumental in shaping my understanding of photography, as I learned the technical aspects of the craft and continued to immerse myself in the art form. Over the years, my passion evolved, leading me to establish my own photography business, From The Ash Tree, where I now strive to create meaningful visual narratives.

At From The Ash Tree, I specialize in capturing emotive portraits, storytelling sessions, and brand photography for businesses and individuals alike. My primary focus is on people; I find inspiration in every human being I encounter and every location I visit. I offer a personalized and transformative experience, helping clients feel comfortable in front of the camera and empowering them to embrace their unique beauty.

The problems I solve for my clients are deeply rooted in self-perception and confidence. Many people struggle with insecurities, unable to see themselves as they truly are. Through my lens, I aim to change that narrative, creating an environment where individuals can feel at ease and appreciated. I strive to produce not just visually stunning images but impactful memories that inspire a newfound appreciation for oneself.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my commitment to infusing meaning and emotion into every shot. I focus on capturing the essence of each individual and the stories they hold. I believe that every photograph should evoke feelings, tell a story, and reflect the inner beauty of the subject. My approach is rooted in compassion, connection, and authenticity, and I truly invest in the experiences of my clients.

I am most proud of the community I’ve built around my brand. Collaborating with fellow photographers, artists, and small businesses has allowed us to support one another in pursuing our passions and making a positive impact. Together, we create a network of individuals striving for change, growth, and unfiltered expression.

For potential clients, followers, and aspiring photographers, I want you to know that my work goes beyond photography. It’s about connection, transformation, and the celebration of individuality. I am dedicated to helping you discover the beauty within yourself and ensuring that every interaction with my art is a joyful and affirming experience. Together, let’s create something truly meaningful, capturing not just images but the very essence of who you are.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

For much of my career, I juggled multiple jobs simultaneously, with photography always being my passion on the side. I often chuckle at the notion of referring to it as a “side hustle” because, in reality, photography is a full-time commitment, especially during the busy seasons of summer and fall. For years, I dipped my toes in this vibrant world, capturing moments and creating stories, but my main focus remained on juggling other jobs.

Despite my love for photography, I struggled with self-doubt and lacked the confidence to fully commit to running my own business. I believed I wasn’t capable of managing all the responsibilities that come with being an entrepreneur. However, life, in its mysterious ways, nudged me toward a profound realization: the universe was encouraging me to step into my power. It became clear that if I truly wanted to pursue my passion and harness my talent, I needed to stop hiding behind the safety of traditional employment.

Ultimately, after much soul-searching and several pivotal moments, I chose to take the leap and establish From The Ash Tree. Once I began believing in myself, everything fell into place. I started to visualize the endless possibilities that could arise from dedicating myself fully to my craft. That belief was the turning point; it opened new doors and ignited a fire within me that I never knew existed.

Some of the key milestones in this journey include:

1. Transitioning from Hobby to Business– The moment I decided to assert my identity as an artist and embrace my work as a legitimate business marked a foundational change.

2. Building a Portfolio – I undertook a series of personal projects and collaborations that helped me refine my style and showcase the kind of work I wanted to create. This step was crucial in attracting clients who resonated with my vision.

3. Client Testimonials and Word of Mouth – As I began to work with clients and provide them not only with beautiful photographs but emotionally impactful experiences, I started receiving heartfelt testimonials. Their words became a testament to the difference I was making in their lives and fueled my confidence.

4. Community Collaborations– I proactively sought partnerships with other local businesses and artists, creating a supportive network that amplified our collective efforts. This approach enriched my brand and introduced me to a broader audience, enabling mutual growth.

5. Expanding My Reach – I began to travel and explore new markets, capturing diverse stories and connecting with people beyond my local community. This not only expanded my portfolio but also deepened my understanding of different cultures and perspectives.

Reflecting on this journey still feels surreal. After all those years of thinking that I wasn’t meant to pursue my dreams, I now find myself living a reality I once thought unattainable. Today, I am proud to call myself a photographer, entrepreneur, and advocate for self-love and empowerment through the lens. I truly believe that embracing my passion not only transformed my life but also allows me to help others see their own beauty and worth.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

The honest truth is that I’ve never been particularly good with money, and I’m still navigating that aspect of my life. When I decided to turn my passion for photography into a business, I didn’t have a meticulously crafted business plan or a clear financial strategy in place. It was a leap of faith more than anything—driven by my love for photography and my desire to share my art with the world.

Starting out, I faced the daunting task of acquiring the necessary equipment. Photography gear—lenses, camera bodies, lighting, software, and other essential tools—can be incredibly expensive. To fund my business, I adopted a very practical approach: I bought one item at a time, prioritizing what I needed most at that moment. Each purchase was a small step forward, but it felt significant. I often saved up for weeks to afford a new lens or a piece of software, always looking for second-hand deals or discounts to stretch my budget.

To be honest, I’m still in that process. I continue to invest in myself and my business, constantly upgrading and expanding my gear as my skills and needs evolve. My philosophy has always been that investing in high-quality equipment pays off in the long run, and I see each new addition as a way to enhance the services I provide to my clients.

What I had from the very beginning—and what was most important—was a camera, a lens, a big heart, and unwavering dedication. While I may not have had the financial savvy or a substantial startup fund, I possessed creativity and passion, elements that cannot be bought. That creativity fuels my work and my ability to connect with clients on a personal level, which I believe is invaluable and irreplaceable.

In many ways, this journey has taught me that while having the right tools is essential, it’s the heart you put into your art and your business that truly matters. I continue to learn and grow in all aspects of running a business, including managing finances, and I’m embracing every step of the process.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fromtheashtree.social
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/from.the.ash.tree?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093547310942

Image Credits

From The Ash Tree