We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashley Paige. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Who are you learning from right now?
Right now, I’m learning the most from my past self. The mistakes, the growth, and the lessons I didn’t realize I was collecting at the time are influencing my decisions and my business more and more every day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Ashley Paige! I’m a portrait photographer who’s obsessed with capturing the little in-between moments. The ones that feel real, unposed, and full of emotion. I started this work because I’ve always been drawn to people and their stories, that combined with my lifelong love of photography was what pushed me towards this industry. I feel lucky to get to preserve people’s stories in a way that feels honest and timeless. My brand is all about creating a comfortable, fun experience so people forget the camera is even there and just be themselves. Right now, I’m working on expanding my work into more lifestyle sessions and creative portrait projects that celebrate connection in all its forms.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad. For as long as I can remember, he worked two, sometimes three, jobs at a time. He has been a firefighter/paramedic and the owner of a small landscaping business for almost 30 years, two demanding and labor-intensive careers. He rarely complained, but we could see the sacrifice and the determination behind his work. He instilled in my sisters and me that hard work isn’t just something you do, it’s a quality you carry with you — a way of showing up for your family, your goals, and yourself. Watching him get up early, stay out late, and still make time to be a dad taught me what dedication really looks like. His work ethic shaped the standard I hold for myself today and the pride I take in everything I do.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Oh yes, there have been many challenges, but the one that stands out most is when I became the victim of an elaborate scam by someone pretending to be a magazine editor hiring me for a fashion photoshoot. They signed contracts, communicated professionally, and mailed me a check that looked completely legitimate. Before it bounced, they instructed me to use part of the funds to pay several vendors on their behalf, so I naively made those payments from my own account. By the time the check was returned as fraudulent, the ‘vendors’ and the client had vanished, and no one ever showed up to the scheduled shoot. I don’t talk about it often—it was a tough, embarrassing, and expensive lesson in how convincing these scams can be. It reminded me to trust my instincts, verify everything, and protect my business even when things appear official on the surface.
In the thick of it, I genuinely thought about giving up. Honestly, the main reason I didn’t was because I needed to work to recover financially from the scam. But I’m so glad I stayed with it. Continuing on helped me rediscover why I love this work, and it made me even more grateful for the career I’ve built.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes and no. My partner jokes that when I’m with clients, I slip into my ‘photo Ash’ persona. The public version of me, the version my clients, coworkers, and friends see is who I strive to be—bubbly, kind, funny, and friendly. But behind closed doors, I’m extremely introverted and quiet, and I really prefer to keep to myself. Both versions are real, they just show up in different environments!
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as someone who cherished and created beauty wherever I could. Whether it was making my home a peaceful, welcoming space for the people I love, arranging homemade floral bouquets, or crafting thoughtful gifts, I’ve always wanted to bring a little more joy and warmth into the lives around me. Traveling, exploring the outdoors, and being surrounded by nature has always filled me with peace and wonder, and I try to carry that same love and care into my everyday life while tending to my houseplants, my pets, and most importantly, my people. I hope my story is one of someone who noticed the quiet, beautiful moments in the world and shared them generously, and one of someone who made others feel cared for, seen, and surrounded by warmth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ashleypaigephotos.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleypaige.photos/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-graham-98ab441a0/
Image Credits
Ashley Paige Photography
