We were lucky to catch up with Ashley McCubbins recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
As a couples and wedding photographer, overcoming imposter syndrome has been a significant journey for me. One of the key steps I’ve taken is to acknowledge my achievements. I maintain a portfolio of my best work and regularly review the positive feedback from clients. This practice helps me see the real impact I’ve had and serves as a reminder of my skills and successes!
Setting realistic goals has been another important strategy. I break down long-term goals into smaller, achievable tasks and celebrate the small wins along the way. This approach has helped build my confidence and keep me motivated Additionally, building a support network by connecting with other photographers and professionals in the industry has been crucial. Sharing experiences and challenges with peers who understand my field has been incredibly reassuring!
Practicing self-compassion has also been essential. I’ve learned to be kind to myself, understanding that everyone makes mistakes and has moments of doubt. This mindset has helped me maintain a positive outlook!
By acknowledging my accomplishments, continuously learning, and building a supportive network, I’ve been able to manage and gradually overcome imposter syndrome! It’s an ongoing process, but these strategies have significantly helped me grow both personally and professionally!
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a luxury couples and wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the unique love stories and cherished moments of couples. My work involves not just photographing weddings but also engagement sessions, where I get to know the couples and their love stories intimately. This allows me to create personalized and meaningful photographs that reflect their connection.
What excites me most about my work is the privilege of being a part of such significant milestones in people’s lives. Each couple has a unique story, and I find immense joy in capturing the genuine emotions, candid moments, and the essence of their relationship. I have a particular passion for warm and neutral tones, which I believe add a timeless and elegant touch to my photographs. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my images will be treasured for a lifetime, preserving memories that can be revisited and cherished over the years.
My approach to photography is all about creating a comfortable and relaxed environment for my clients. I strive to make them feel at ease in front of the camera, allowing their true personalities and love to shine through. This results in authentic and heartfelt images that truly represent who they are as a couple!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were creativity, empathy, and technical proficiency. Creativity allowed me to envision and capture unique and memorable shots that stand out. It helped in composing beautiful images, finding the perfect lighting, and telling a compelling story through photographs. For those early in their journey, I recommend constantly experimenting with different styles and techniques. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things. Studying other photographers’ work for inspiration while developing your own unique style is crucial!
Empathy was also a key factor. Understanding and connecting with clients on a personal level made a significant difference. It helped in making clients feel comfortable and relaxed, which is essential for capturing genuine emotions and candid moments
Mastery of the technical aspects of photography, such as camera settings, lighting, and post-processing, is essential for a photographer. One way to improve these skills is through mentorships, which can provide personalized guidance and insights from experienced professionals. I offer mentorship programs to help aspiring photographers develop their technical proficiency and refine their craft!
My advice for those early in their journey is to embrace these qualities and continually seek improvement. Stay curious, be patient with your progress, and always strive to connect with your clients! This combination will not only improve your photography but also enrich the experience for both you and those you photograph!
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who values trust in the creative process and appreciates a natural and warm aesthetic in photography! I am passionate about capturing classy and elegant moments infused with fun and adventurous spirit! Ideal clients are open to taking style advice and collaborating on ideas to create timeless and personalized photographs that reflect their unique story!
I find joy in working with individuals and couples who appreciate the artistry that goes into each photograph! Their enthusiasm for creating beautiful and meaningful images aligns perfectly with my approach to photography! Together, we can create lasting memories that they will cherish for a lifetime!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.southernoakfilmco.com
- Instagram: @southernoakfilmco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southernoakfilmco
- Other: Tiktok: @southernoakfilmco
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