We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Carter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One lesser-known aspect of the photography industry is the significant role that post-processing plays in creating galleries for clients. While many people think that photographers simply click a button to capture a perfect shot, the reality is that a lot of work goes into culling and editing photos after they are taken.

Post-processing involves adjusting the white balance and lighting, contrast, sharpness, and removing imperfections. Most of the time, editing a gallery is my favorite part because that is when the majority of my style and creativity shines. Since post-processing is where a majority of my time is spent, this makes the rates so complex. It’s not just about the time spent taking photos but also includes factors like equipment costs, editing time, travel time, and location expenses.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a lifestyle photographer, my passion lies in capturing authentic moments and preserving the memories you create with your family. I believe in staying true to the natural colors and emotions that you felt that day. I have always loved timeless photos for myself so I wanted to bring that to my business.

I remember when I got my first camera (a green point and shoot FujiFilm), I could not stop taking photos of nature and my family. I captured a picture of my dad fishing on his boat while holding a bass at sunset. I was so proud to show him the picture. I’ll never forget him saying, “You see the world differently than most. You see the world through the lens of a camera and I am really proud of you for that.” Simple words that I continually want to live up to. I took that passion and brought it to my professional career. My favorite sessions have been documenting milestone memories for families while running through a field or climbing the tall Texas trees.

It took me a while to build up the courage to start my professional photography career. There is a saying many photographers will feel at some point called imposter syndrome. Meaning you feel like an imposter labeling yourself as a professional photographer. I have felt this many of times because I only thought of myself as a hobbyist. The switch in mentality for me was when I delivered a gallery to a dear friend and they were so joyful about the images they teared up and said they have never felt so beautiful in photos before. I knew right then, this why I persevered through all the insecurities and late nights if it meant one person saw themselves how I do through my lens.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My best friend actually lives in Georgia and I have planned the perfect week for when she visits to get the authentic Texan experience. Starting it off she would stay at my home in Roanoke since I have two lovable dogs that love to make new friends. Next I would take her on a BBQ tour for lunch and dinner. My favorite BBQ being a tie between Hutchins, Meat U Anywhere, or 407 BBQ. After we adequately indulged in brisket, I would bring her down to the stockyards for some Texan fun. There are so many events and places to see we would have to spend a couple of days down there. We will start at Second Rodeo Brewing for some live music and delicious drinks. Then I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to do a best friends photoshoot by Hotel Drover. Cowboy boots and everything. Hopefully there is a rodeo in town because we defiantly would attend that and then quickly head over to BillyBob’s for some country dancing. You have to experience Billy Bob’s at least once in your life. Then we would end the night at PR’s for some more country dancing and watch the professionals command the dance floor for all of the line dancing I am not particularly skilled at.

After a few days of country excitement, I would slow things down with some hiking. Most people may not realize that Texas still has plenty of pretty areas you just have to seek them out. Any trail on lake Grapevine is really pretty and you have the opportunity to swim or fish as well. One of my favorite locations is Rockledge Park on Grapevine lake. I used to watch the firework show every Friday evening during the summer there. Its beautiful! I still love to go there for sunset sessions and enjoying the outdoors. Speaking of Grapevine, I would definitely take her shopping in downtown Grapevine. The hidden bookstore and the new Harvest Hall being my favorite.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shoutout to my amazing Connect Group at CrossCreek Church! When I decided to jump in and start my photography business, those families were the first ones to ask for portraits. They spread word to their friends and family to use my services and were so patient as I learned the intricacies of starting up a creative business.

Website: ashleycartercreative.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleycartercreative?igsh=dzI4ZzhlbTN2OXg3&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557561243972

Image Credits
All taken by me.

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