We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ashton Schrader a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashton, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
I feel like creativity blocks come and go. With photography, there’s an abundance of creative freedom. The industry is always changing and coming up with new ideas and ways to showcase photography. For me, I always take some time away from the camera, away from advertising myself and just take a breather. Sometimes I like to step away from photographing clients and just take everyday pictures of my kids or of life in general. I’ll get outside and just take pictures for fun. I also love to scroll Instagram and see what other photographers are doing. It really inspires me to come up with my own ideas.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a natural light photographer. I specialize in families, lifestyle, and couples. One of my most favorite things about photography is the opportunity it’s given me to meet so many people. From all walks of life. From all over the country. I’ve been able to build so many friendships from people who have started out just as clients.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three top qualities/skills that really helped me were: passion, communication, and patience. If photography is what interests you, you have to have a love for it. It’s so more than just pressing a button. There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes in photography. You always want to form a good relationship with your clients leading up to a session and staying in contact with them throughout the whole process. It’s a lot of work, but so worth it.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents have always been my biggest supporters. From the time I took an interest in photography, to now.. They helped me buy my first DSLR camera. They attended my senior print show for college. They share my business page constantly to help get my name out there. They interact with my posts to help boost their reach.. All of these things has helped me get to where I am in my field now. Having a good support system will always be the backbone of what I do. I wouldn’t be here without them!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ashtonloreniaphoto
- Facebook: Ashton Lorenia Photography – North Georgia Photographer
