Artist Spotlight: Ashley Myers
ASHLEY MYERS
When Ashley Myers reached out to us about a rush job she was sending we were so eager for the film to arrive. This is definitely not Ashley’s first shoot with Andrea Whitt but it is now our favorite! We got some behind the scene footage of Ashley shooting content of Andrea for her Playboy Feature at the Sunset Sound Recording Studio. Check out her Shoot With Me video here and more images from the shoot below!
We are huge fans of Ashley and her work. From Vegas weddings to Desert Elopements, she can do it all. We wanted to know more about her and the process of film photography from her perspective. Let’s dive into her portfolio!
Give a brief history of your career:
“I grew up in front of the camera so it only seemed like an easy transition to be interested in documenting people. When I started this business, over ten years ago, I knew my angle would be lifestyle, fun, colorful. I always try and aim to get editorial vibes with my couples (if they are interested and willing) to play a little and have time to do so. In this city of Vegas, we tend to get the very quick elopement style shoots so getting to know each other (we did not meet at an engagement session, like other locations) is quick! Having the time of about 2-3 hours is the sweet spot in getting those amazing shots. I shoot fast because of this, which in turn sometimes can falter in creativity if I am doing the "check list" of things. In all, I love the fast paced environment this has set on me. I enjoy the hurdles it can sometimes throw at me! Keeps me on my toes.”
What got you into photography? And then into film?
“As I mentioned growing up in front of the camera professionally modeling and dancing, it just made sense for me. For film, I started on a film camera just slightly when I was 19. At that time, it was big to get a nice DSLR so it took me years to pick up a film camera again. My first one was a Canon AE 1 that my grandpa gave me and instantly fell in love with the struggles in learning film! How fun it is to slowly take a photo, to enjoy not knowing what you got and to have the anticipation of seeing your scans. I think that film is a medium to which slows me down, in a fast paced work environment. The look of it, there is nothing like it. I have gone from digital to now only offering film photography for my wedding clients and am trying to incorporate editorial shoots in learning more about film, what I can do with it, and which cameras I can try out!! Oh the fun!”
What is your go-to film stock?
“Portra 400 and Fuji 400”
35mm or 120? Why?
“Well, 120 if I have the time. It is the most gorgeous frame, ever. 120mm from my Mamiya is the best I have ever seen. I don't take her out much because one, shes a beast and two, the process is a lot slower. 120 if I had my way everyday but clearly, we can all see why 35mm is the go to for everyone.”
Describe your style in three words.
“Colorful/vibrant, energetic and movement”
Describe your dream client.
“Laid back, creative: enjoys planning but lets the shoot unfold organically. Enjoys the adventure, understanding the process of both what it takes to get the shot and being open minded.
My dream JOB would be a lifestyle brand like Wrangler, Levis, RVCA: something that takes the lifestyle branding experience with an editorial approach.”
What's the most important lesson you've learned from working with clients?
“Always listen to your gut. There are times when you know that you and a client are not a good match. Fitting for personality is probably the utmost important thing. I have realized those times I didn't listen to my gut, I probably should have. It's OK to turn down a job, you are telling the universe what you want and what does not work for you.”
Young Ashley is asking for advice: what piece of wisdom does she need to hear the most?
“I really like the avenue I have gone. I wouldn't change much. Before I had kids I really worked on creative shoots and took time listening and playing with my own creativity. I wish I had more time now, with kids involved- ha!. I guess telling my younger self the best gift is time, enjoy it.”
To wrap things up here are a few of our favorite quotes from Ashley’s website:
”My goal is to have an editorial viewpoint in a lifestyle manner.”
”There is nothing you can do wrong in an image.”
Ashley Myers
I believe in the power of being a kind human. I think we should all travel the World. I think it’s important to have conversations that expand the horizons of your mind (even if it isn’t something you agree with.) I think we should always try to learn something new, do something out of the purity of happiness, love. I think we need to see the World as a teacher and to be kind to ourselves.I shoot film because I love all things Analog. Slower process, trusting the process and not knowing what it is you’re capturing exactly allows us to be in the moment. I have been my own boss for over 10 years and wouldn’t have it any other way. Thank you for being here and thank you for allowing me to be a person in your journey.
See more of Ashley’s work on instagram @ashleytruly and her website.