Beginnings Photgraphy Workshop with Ashley Therese Photography

Recently I had the amazing opportunity to attend a photography workshop with Ashley and Chris from Ashley Therese Photography.  I was first introduced to the beautiful work of Ashley and Chris over the summer when they photographed my cousin Meghan’s wedding (http://www.ashleythereseblog.com/blog.cfm?postID=239&tappan-hill-mansion-wedding).  Through Ashley’s blog posts I instantly knew she was someone I wanted to follow and learn from.  Her posts quickly became these little presents that I got excited to see on Facebook!  When she posted about her Beginnings Photography Workshop, I signed up right away!  I was actually home sick with the Flu when her post came across my news feed, so I was able to quickly claim a spot.  I have never been happier to be home sick. 

The workshop was held at the beautiful Patterson Club in Fairfield, CT.  I was among seven other passionate and talented photographers who are all at different places in their journey and are looking to grow their businesses.  We shared stories and talked about our backgrounds.  We all had the same objectives and goals for the day…to gain a better understanding of how to build our businesses.  We laughed, asked questions, exchanged business cards and instantly became friends brought together by one thing, our passion for photography.

When I arrived, I was warmly greeted by Chris and Ashley.  They made the setting so comfortable for all of us, snacks on the coffee table and plenty of chocolate to get us through the day.  Ashley has a slight…OK, major obsession with chocolate…her favorite are York Peppermint Patties…I mean, who can blame her!

What I loved most about the day was listening to Ashley and Chris share their story of how they got to where they are today.  A lot of hard work and passion are just two of the many things that stood out.  It is very clear that they are so passionate about educating new photographers on how to build their business.  Ashley and Chris put their hearts into seeing other photographers follow their dreams and I appreciate how they just keep it real.  They really take you under their wings, genuinely believe in your vision and positively encourage you to believe in yourself.  How powerful!  The tips, steps, tools and advice they shared throughout the day were invaluable.  Life-changing.   

Throughout the past few weeks, I have re-read the notes I took throughout the day…33 pages of notes, yes I counted!  My mindset has already shifted and I finally feel like I have the tools I need to pursue my passion.  Thank you Ashley and Chris for an incredible experience. 

Part of the workshop included a mini photo shoot with an adorable couple, Alyssa and Billy.  Ashley took us through her process when shooting couples and gave us a ton of posing tips, techniques and advice to capture the special connection that couples share.  The feedback and critique was so valuable. 

Some of my favorite shots I captured of Alyssa and Billy are below!  Aren’t they the cutest couple!  They met at the University of Connecticut and during our time with them, they could not stop laughing and smiling at each other.  I loved watching their playful side and the way Alyssa gushed at Billy and the way Billy loved making Alyssa laugh.  Alyssa’s Claddagh ring faced her heart and there were moments throughout the day that she grabbed Billy’s hands in this adorable double-grab sort of way.  It didn’t matter if she had to climb on her tiptoes to reach his cheek, she was excited for any chance to express their giddiness for each other! Their chemistry was so obvious and contagious! 

Enjoy!  And be sure to check out Ashley’s beautiful work at http://www.ashleythereseblog.com/  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ashley showing us her posing techniques!