Ashley Johannes of Oshkosh, Wisconsin on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Ashley Johannes and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Ashley, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day is all about focusing and energizing myself and my thoughts. I must start with coffee because there’s no way I could get anything done without it haha. After I get my coffee going then I make myself a healthy breakfast. Once that’s finished I read something positive for at least 20 minutes. Sometimes it’s about mindset, business, or an inspirational story. But something to get me to thinking in the right direction. Once I’ve finished reading I workout and I’ve made that a huge priority for myself this past year. I have a 300+ day workout streak and my goal is at least 365 days. Not only have I seen physical changes, but mental ones as well. This has allowed me to pivot challenges and learn to put my priorities first. There have been hard days or days I wait until 11pm to get my stuff in and it’s not ideal. But I get it done. Because I’ve learned that I need to take care of myself. I notice that days I don’t get my routine done in the morning, I feel off and less energized. So it’s definitely made a positive impact in my life.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ashley and I’m a portrait photographer in Wisconsin. I primarily photograph high school seniors, families, college grads and maternity clients. I love creating unique sessions and experiences for my clients because I think everyone deserves images that make them feel beautiful. And I highlight their uniqueness and really encourage my clients to embrace the things that make them different. And that’s true for any of my clients, but especially with my high school seniors. I’ve been bullied my whole life by family members, friends, peers and those around me for being different. And so I know first hand how discouraging it feels, but as I’ve gotten older I realize that my differences are what makes me special. So I breathe that into my clients. And I’ve created an experience that highlights their unique qualities. Everyone deserves to feel confident with who they are.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Like I just mentioned, I was bullied a lot. I remember days girls chased me around the playground and taunted me. I remember my “best friend” talking poorly about me to someone else. It was moments like these I started to feel unworthy. I felt like I didn’t belong and that people who were different didn’t have a place in this world. But as I grew older I realized that those who bully people have their own insecurities and or are afraid of those are their own person.
I now know that it’s a beautiful thing to be different than everyone else. Whether it’s how we dress, the things we like, how we look, etc. The world would be so boring if we all were the same. Our differences are truly what makes us amazing and beautiful.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I think as a business owner there’s always going to be times that cross your mind about giving up. But that’s when the growth happens. That’s when you dig in and really, truly decide what you want in life and what you’re willing to give up. It’s in those moments that you find out what you’re made of and how much you want to succeed. Sometimes things change and you need to pivot, but you have to remember that when you’re chasing your dreams you can’t ever quit. Because quitting would be one of your biggest regrets in life. I’d rather try and fail then think what if.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely! haha. I’m not afraid to show my true self to the world. I no longer hide who I am, but rather embrace it. I’m goofy and I like to crack jokes. I’m down to earth and love just being real with everyone. I like having fun with everything I do. I love inspiring others and showing them more ways to love themselves. And I think it’s great for others to see the real me, whether it’s online or in person. I’m not afraid to show up in leggings and a messy bun haha because I value being comfortable. I’m not afraid to show people my office is a little messy because it is. It’s the real me. And it makes me relatable.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
Born to do 100%!! I’ve always been interested in art and photography. I even remember asking for disposable cameras as a little girl for Christmas. And I remember saving up all my birthday and Christmas money for a digital camera in the 8th grade. It’s always been intriguing to me to create and be inspired. I’ve also always wanted to help people. And I think I’ve found a way to do that through my photography. I love helping my clients feel empowered and confident. I love showing them that they’re beautiful just the way they are. I love helping my clients see themselves in a new way. I’ve also been able to help many teens through my Senior Model Team which is all about building new friendships and building confidence in yourself again. It’s honestly one of my favorite parts of my job! I do feel like I was born to do this. And my clients have mentioned they see it through my energy and excitement at my sessions. I can’t deny or hide it haha.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ashleykalbus.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ashleykalbusphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleykalbusphotography
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ashley-kalbus-photography-oshkosh
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGKfyo_RPnuKV8hyCUXFBOA

Image Credits
Ashley Kalbus Photography