Photography – like anything else – has so many different styles. Just like if you’re shopping for clothes or even for a house, there are so many styles to choose from! It doesn’t mean that one type of photography is better than the others. It’s all about what YOU like! There’s a style for everyone!

When it comes to photography, I like to describe my style as “Joyful, Natural, & Storytelling.” I love to showcase love & connection between people. I am drawn to real life, real moments, and real emotion. Although my style isn’t completely documentary, I love when moments are uninterrupted by anything “fake”. It doesn’t mean that I don’t guide my clients & create certain moments. I absolutely do! But…I guide them in a way that eventually leads to REAL emotion and interactions. That is my goal.

Since I try to be as natural & simple as possible, I personally do not choose to use cutesy or artistic props in my work. I like to focus on the environment around us and use whatever is readily available to us.

However, there is one thing I always bring to a session, though…and that is an antique quilt (or two). I always have it so my clients will have something to sit on if we do a sitting shot. Although this can be considered a prop, it is super simple and doesn’t interrupt the natural vibe of the image.

And sometimes I will bring a chair or a stool.

Does this mean that a client is forbidden from bringing props to their session with me?!! Absolutely not! I always tell clients that – if they have something that is special that they want to incorporate – they are more than welcome to bring it! I just never require them to bring props…and I never want my clients to expect that they will have props.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as a toddler’s favorite book, a Senior’s class ring or Senior jacket. Sometimes it’s an antique quilt made by their grandmother. Sometimes, like last month, a Senior boy brought his kayak and we literally put it in a pond! haha I wouldn’t dare tell him he couldn’t bring a kayak! He’s on the fishing team, for goodness sake!

My point is that props are not wrong! I just choose to keep my work simple and as natural as possible. If I use props, I like them to naturally fit in with the shot…such as reading a book, sitting together, cuddling on a quilt, etc. I like them to reflect who the person is and help tell their story instead of just being in the shot as “something cute”, if that makes sense.

So…if you’re one of my clients, just know that you NEVER have to bring props to your session!! You are enough! And if we need a chair or a blanket, I’ve got you covered!!

If you’re a new photographer, don’t ever feel like you HAVE to use props if you don’t want to! Remember, they’re for some people and not for others, and that’s okay!! However, if you love props (backdrops, toys, chalkboards, signs, etc.), then use them! There are no rules!

Thanks for being here! I hope this is helpful! Have a great weekend!

Love,

Ashlee