I had to make some really difficult decisions this year. I had to choose between security and the possibility of making more money or my happiness and my business. I realized that I want do things in life that feed my soul rather then crush it. Those decisions have honestly paid off in huge ways and I am the happiest I have ever been! Everything that has happened this year really has me going back to my roots and thinking a lot about why I do what I do.
One of the main reasons I am a photographer is because I crave relationships with people, I want to meet and get to know people from all areas, cultures, lifestyles, age, race and religion. Every person I meet, I learn something new about them or about life in general, and I love it. I believe that life is all about experience, it’s a short one and there is so much to see, learn and so many people to meet.
I want every moment of my life to mean something, I want to experience as much as I can. That doesn’t necessarily mean traveling to all parts of the world (although I am going to try!) It’s about relationships, it’s about sitting in a bar and starting a conversation with a new face. It’s about reconnecting with a friend from the past.
When I am behind the camera photographing someone, I share a connection with them. They are almost forced to be vulnerable with me and show their true colors. I love capturing people as they really are, in a relaxed state. I love to ask questions about my clients life and really get to know them, and that is where I gain my experience and learn something new every time.
The other reason I am a photographer is because I was born an artist. I always loved to create, whether it was building, drawing, styling, or making photos. The idea of creating new things always excited me and kept me going, even when life got me down. There is a real beauty of making the world a more beautiful place, one little creation at a time.
That is why I truly love photography. I am able to bring pieces of art into the world while making the people I meet feel beautiful and confident in themselves.
Also side note: Happy Lefthanders Day to all my fellow lefty’s!
xo Ashley Caitlin