ashly photography - blog

New website and blog

2008-11-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

This site will no longer be updated...please visit my new website/blog at

www.ashlyphotography.com

W. family

2008-10-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

A. wasn't much for looking at the camera...but she did love tending to her little brother. I'm so glad I was able to capture some of their interactions! Mom mentioned that she would be ordering pictures to give to her family as Christmas presents (and I thought I was the only one that did that!) So, I thought I would post that as idea for YOUR Christmas list. Do you have a relative who has everything or a mother who always wants a picture of the family together?!? Why not send them picture! From now until December 20th I'm offering Christmas mini sessions for $35! Contact me (or check out my website) for more information! OK, on to the sneak peek!!!

O. family

2008-10-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

Another family mini session sneak peak! Miss L. is at the perfect age to laugh and smile for me...and big brother K. only wanted to run from me! I was still able to get some great shots! Also, check out mom and dad! They were good sports dressing up and walking through the woods, chasing their kiddos. Thanks for the fun session!

H. family

2008-10-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

My Christmas mini sessions started this weekend. My first session was with this lovely family. We had fun watching Miss L. throwing rocks in the pond and trying to catch fish with a stick! Enjoy the sneak peek!

September 20th wedding

2008-10-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

Amazing, GORGEOUS (someone told me I use that word too much on here :), loving, sweet...those are just some of the words that come to mind when I think of this couple and their love for each other. They decided to meet before the wedding for a couples session at the Historic Washington State Park in Arkansas and I'm so glad they did. Not only was it a neat location, it was great getting to see them see other for the first time on their wedding day. I'm so happy to share a few of my favorites from the day. I went a little over board with the preview, but I just couldn't narrow it down anymore. Enjoy!!

Christmas mini sessions!! Schedule yours today!

2008-09-23T15:33:00.001-07:00

It's that time again! Last year my Christmas mini sessions were a hit, so I decided this year I would start them just a little earlier.

Here are just a few of the details:
***$35 for a 30 minute session for up to 4 people (add $5 for each additional person)
***10-15 proofs for you to choose from (I provide both color and b/w of each proof, so you're actually getting 20-30 proofs)

I've added a new gallery to my website - the Christmas card collection. These are press printed cards that can be printed in a glossy or matte finish. For an additional charge you can have your favorite picture printed on the backside of the card. Not only will your family and friends receive a gorgeous Christmas card, they will also have a 4x5.5 picture of your family to frame! You decide on the card and we can work together to customize it to your liking!

Contact me for more information!!

Hurricane Ike sends a gorgeous little girl my way

2008-09-19T17:40:00.001-07:00

Miss E and her family had to evacuate to Shreveport after Hurricane Ike threatened her home in Houston. Luckily their house didn't sustain much damage. She had a great time playing in the water fountains on Wednesday and I had fun catching her in action!

My gorgeous nephew - 4 months

2008-09-07T14:43:00.001-07:00

My sister and two nephews came to visit this week and I couldn't pass up the chance to photograph this little butterball (he's 16 pounds and only 4 months old)! I love that age because they are smiling and interactive, but not mobile enough to get into anything yet...at least not like a 2 1/2 year old! I'm also busy coming up with designs for this years Christmas card gallery...I will be revealing those very soon!

weddings, weddings, weddings...

2008-08-27T16:01:00.000-07:00

My September, October and November are almost completely booked up with just weddings! I'm so excited about expanding this part of my business. I am very honored to be asked to photograph this special day for couples. New wedding gallery images will be coming soon!!

Holding love...

2008-08-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

My grandmother just celebrated her 82nd birthday...she doesn't act a day over 60! These are her hands holding my 4 month old nephew's feet. Technically it could be a little better in my eyes...but I just love the feelings this provokes in me. On a side note...be on the look out for my holiday mini sessions! They'll be coming soon!!!!!

our trip to the Cayman islands...

2008-07-27T08:33:00.001-07:00

We were asked by our friends Mike and Sue if we wanted to go with them to Grand Cayman for a vacation...um yeah! We had fun sleeping in, laying on the beach and even swimming with stingrays! Well, I did it for about 10 minutes, but my hubby stayed out there the full hour! I wanted to share a few of our pictures.
view from the plane...somewhere over the Tropic of Cancer

obligatory "feet in sand on beach" vacation shot

snapshot of me and the hubby after a yummy meal!

a new big brother...

2008-07-27T08:30:00.001-07:00

another session from July 7
After taking his mom's maternity pictures, we decided to take some of the soon-to-be big brother. He had fun jumping on his bed and cheesing for the camera.

My bf from high school expecting baby #2...

2008-07-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

session from July 7...I'm just a little behind in updating my blog
I had a good time with this session. I'm happy to announce that little miss N. was born on July 24th weighing in at 7 pounds, 9 ounces and 19 inches long. I can't wait to meet her in person!

Saturday engagement session

2008-07-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

This couple was SO in love and it showed! I can't wait to photograph their wedding in September. Enjoy the sneak peek...

Happy Father's Day!! ---a day late

2008-06-16T15:03:00.001-07:00

a few things about my Daddy:

He's...supportive, loving, giving, always optimistic, William Shatner fan (ughh!!), sensitive, hard working, never gives up, loves chocolate, great husband, always has the best intentions, committed, ALWAYS encouraging, helpful, loves old westerns (and likes to tell us who is in them), good singer, explains most things in great detail, selfless

I was blessed with an amazing Daddy. He's always been a great supporter of me and our family. I know I can count on him for anything I may need - question about newborn (he's a NICU nurse), problem with my car (on the side mechanic), number question (he's got a calculator for a brain), who played in old movie (he knows all the characters in the old westerns!).

I love you Daddy!!!!

us a VERY long time ago...

Also, be sure to check out "It Won't Be This Way For Long" by Darius Rucker formerly known as Hootie of Hootie and the Blowfish. I instantly thought of my Daddy when I heard it

Haley - Senior '08

2008-06-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

It always makes my job easy when the client has gorgeous skin and a great smile!! We had fun walking around downtown Texarkana looking for different locations. Haley was a good sport and went with my ideas even when they were a little crazy! Check these out...

This one is my favorite!! I can't believe she just graduated high school!!!

Miss SJ...16 months old

2008-06-11T14:56:00.001-07:00

I forgot how much fun little kiddos are to chase around and photograph! This little girl didn't sit still for more than 1 minute our entire 2 hour session...I think she successfully wore herself, me, her mom and her nanny out!! We had the session at the Texarkana Golf Course and tried our best to be quiet. We did get a few dirty looks from some of the golfers, but I don't think they minded too much.

(I just love this last look...it looks like she's thinking "are you crazy woman!?!?")

Festival String Quartet

2008-06-04T09:52:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing the Festival String Quartet on Sunday. These musicians are members and conductors of many different orchestras in our area. Before our session I enjoyed the Shreveport Summer Music Festival concert which just celebrated it's 32nd year. The concert was held at the gorgeous and historic Church of the Holy Cross (est. 1905) in Shreveport, Louisiana.

As some of you know, music is one of my loves. I was involved in my high school and college bands. So, anytime I have the chance to go to a concert, I'm there. Our area is overflowing with many talented musicians. I'm posting a few links to area orchestras...check them out!

Texarkana Symphony - just celebrated it's 2nd season
Shreveport Symphony - founded in 1948

Happy Memorial Day!

2008-05-26T15:23:00.000-07:00

I hope everybody has a great Memorial Day! I want to thank all the soldiers out there risking their lives for our country and freedom. I hope you come home safe very soon!!!

image copyright Ashly Photography 2008

"one of these things is not like the other"

2008-05-26T15:12:00.001-07:00

Anybody remember that little diddy from Sesame Street? One of the online photographer groups I'm a member of is hosting a contest. The only elements that the picture has to have is 1. a child 2. a cupcake 3. gardening tools. The winner will be announced this Friday!! There are some really cool prizes, so it would be awesome to win!! I'll keep everyone updated.

Miss P. - in orphan costume

2008-05-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

This little cutie is a dancer with a local studio in town. Her mom wanted pictures of her in costume for the program. Check out the transformation she makes! She really was able to capture that 'overworked, tired orphan' emotion!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-09T12:01:00.003-07:00

I just wanted to wish all moms out there a Happy Mother's Day! I've compiled some of my favorite shots from previous session. Enjoy the pictures and make sure your sound is turned on. I hope you have a fabulous day!!!

Last day for digital file special!

2008-05-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Today's the last day! Thank you so much to those who have purchased digital files from your session!! You can still place your order by today to get the special. Click here to find out more information.

Paige - Sunday Senior

2008-05-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

Another senior from the class of 2008! As you can tell she loved the camera...and the camera loved her right back! The Sunday afternoon light and downtown Texarkana made the perfect backdrop for this session!

Sneaky peaky for my Saturday Senior.....

2008-05-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

The day turned out to be perfect for taking senior pictures! We had fun wandering around downtown Texarkana looking for locations. We found several that produced amazing backgrounds!! We ended the session playing at the kids playground...and that's where I got the REAL smile! :)

***stay tuned for more senior sneak peaks...another senior session to follow tomorrow!!!

the Sarine's awaiting baby J.

2008-04-28T12:37:00.000-07:00

After photographing this couple and their dog, Lily, I can tell you that they are ready to meet baby J. and they are going to be great parents!! Enjoy the sneek peak...

New prices!!!

2008-04-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

I've just update my prices...including my sitting fee. I happy to announce that I am now offering collections which will help you save a little cash when ordering portraits! Email me for a complete product and price list!! Also, only a few more days to get the April special, click here to find out more.

Mr G.'s sneek peak...

2008-04-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

I had SO much fun with 9 month old G. and his sister (she agreed to be in a few shots)! Poor thing was happy even though he got 2 ant bites while during the session. Enjoy!!!

Introducing my new nephew...

2008-04-21T19:43:00.000-07:00

OK, time for a little personal info...my second nephew was born this morning weighing in at 7 lbs. 15 oz. and was 19 inches long. His name is Myles Cool (my great grandmother's maiden...no joke!). He was such a little sweety!! I can't wait to get my hands on him again!! I can already tell he's going to be a great subject for me to photograph!!!

Myles

Playing kissy face...already!!!

Is that a smile I see??

Also, check back here often...I've got several sessions lined up over the next few weeks!! I can't wait!!!

Blue Ribbon winner!!

2008-04-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

I entered my first print competition this evening...one that my ArkLaTex Photographers Guild was hosting. This print, entitled "Love Lines" took home first place!! This is my grandmother holding my son and was taken around 11pm one evening to ensure he would be still. I love it and I'm glad my peers did too!!!

"Love Lines"

April showers bring...pictures??

2008-04-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

I would like to extend a special to all of my clients who had a session with me prior to April 2008. From now until May 6th I am offering the chance to purchase a CD containing high resolution electronic files of the pictures from your session. This will allow you to have unlimited rights to print or otherwise use the pictures as you wish. Now for the prices...

10 pictures - $100
20 pictures - $175
all session pictures - $250

*Orders MUST be placed by May 6th in order to be eligible for this special

It's Wedding season!!

2008-04-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

If a you or a friend is getting married soon and is still looking for a wedding photographer let me know!! I had a BLAST at the last wedding I photographed and I would love to do another!! My favorite photography is the kind where I get to sit back and capture real emotions. There is not a better time than a wedding to do just that. Email me for my wedding price list! When booking your wedding with me, mention my blog and I'll add a $50 print credit to your package!!!!

New pictures added to website

2008-03-20T12:59:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let everybody know that I just added new pictures to the Bellies and Kiddos sections of my website! Be on the lookout for new Newborn pictures...my sister is due in April and you can BET that I'll be taking pictures of the newest member of our family!!!

Also, if you know a high school senior out there that is interested in having senior pictures done...give them my information! Tell them to mention my blog and I'll take an additional 15% off their print order!! Ok, ok...I'm starting to sound like an informerical. Here's the thing, after taking pictures at the NDHS Jr. ROTC formal I realized that I love working with that age group. I am dying to get some urban (think downtown, brick, old buildings, etc) senior shots!! Email or call me with any questions you may have!!

NDHS Jr. ROTC ball

2008-03-04T20:20:00.001-08:00

I had so much fun working with North DeSoto High School Jr. ROTC group. Their ball was March 1 at Barksdale Air Force Base and I was selected to be their photographer. It's been a while since I've been in that type of atmosphere and I must admit it took me back down memory lane...the excitement of getting dressed up, the little heart flutters when seeing your date at the door...it was great!! Here's a fun outtake of the Jr. ROTC staff at the very end of the night...

Michael Buble in concert

2008-03-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

I had a GREAT time seeing MB in concert! I actually got teary eyed when he came out on stage...I SO did not expect to be that excited!! He did an awesome job!!! Here are a few pictures taken with hubby's IPhone. The first is from down front and the second is from our seats - which were AMAZING!!!!!

my baby sister is having another baby!!

2008-02-28T12:34:00.001-08:00

We can't wait for Mr. M to make his appearance!!! He's due around the end of April. Enjoy the sneak peek!!!

One of my friends is expecting again!!!

2008-02-26T16:10:00.000-08:00

This girl knew me when I wore yarn strings in my hair!! Needless to say I was itching to do her maternity pictures!! Also, since she's a good friend of mine she let me try out some new lighting techniques. I had a great time with her and we were able to play catch up since our lives are so busy these days! Check out some of my favorites from her session...(enlarging these pictures will distort the quality)

Mr. G - 3 month session

2008-02-18T09:01:00.000-08:00

Mr. G holds the record for the quickest nap during a session. He literally slept about 5 minutes and then was awake and very happy! Below is my favorite picture from his session...he actually stayed asleep just long enough for one good shot.

Happy Valentines Day to me!!!!

2008-02-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

My AWESOME hubby got me tickets to see Michael Buble!!!! I am SO excited!! In case you don't know who he is, check out his site http://www.michaelbuble.com/node He's AMAZING!!!!!!!!

My little man...

2008-02-10T21:31:00.000-08:00

Since I haven't had a session in a couple of weeks (thank goodness because I had the flu last week!!!), I thought I would offer a glimpse into my life. This is my little man playing peek a boo. I love that smile!!!

I've got a 3 month old session coming up this weekend!! I can't wait to get my hands on that little man!! Stay tuned for a sneak peek!!

the McPhaul's, family and FLARE!!

2008-01-26T05:36:00.001-08:00

After looking at their pictures, you would have never guessed it was 40+ degrees outside!! I had a great time with them and they were all wonderful to work with. This is my absolute favorite picture from their session!!

Check out that flare!!

NDHS Jr. ROTC ball here I come!!!

2008-01-26T05:32:00.000-08:00

I won the bid to be the photographer for the North DeSoto High School Jr. ROTC ball. I am so excited about working with them!! I was referred by one of the girls in Jr. ROTC who was also part of the NDHS flagline that I photographed last fall. I had a great time with those girls, so I know this will be a blast!!

Mr. G - 6 month pictures

2008-01-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

Some of you will recognize Mr G. from my portfolio. I was thrilled when I was asked to take his 6 month old pictures. He was such a happy baby and was full of smiles! Check out some of my faves from the session...

Fire in the sky...

2008-01-12T20:32:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share this with all of you...it only lasted about 5 minutes and then it was gone. This is the sky from my front door during sunset. Gorgeous.

Miss M.

2008-01-08T15:08:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I've had a baby session. Miss M was so gorgeous and pretty happy the whole time. She finally fell asleep at the end so we were lucky to get some awake and asleep shots. These are two of my favorites so far...I haven't even looked at all the pictures yet! :)

First Session of 2008

2008-01-08T14:21:00.000-08:00

was 5 cousins, two mothers and one grandmother. I totally enjoyed myself and I think even the kids had a pretty good time. This is one of my favorites from the session.

NEW LOOK!!!

2008-01-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

I have a new look and new site for 2008!!! In addition to the new look I will be offering more products such as photo jewelry, DVD's with a slideshow of your session pictures set to music and a few other items that I think everyone will be interested in adding to their print orders.

I have also added to my background inventory to include a sky blue seamless paper. Stay tuned to see pictures of it from a session I did this week. I will also be offering more colors in the seamless paper in the near future.

My new photography website will be live sometime today!! I can't wait!!!! Not only does it look amazing, it offers an online photo cart...which means you can preview all your session pictures and place the order directly on the website. No more sending me a seperate email with your picture order, this website does it for you!!!

Have a great day!!!!

Happy Holidays!!!

2007-12-30T20:13:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year!!! My family and I have been traveling all over creation visiting family for the holidays. It's been fun, but it's great to finally be home and be still for a little while.

I'm excited to share with you that I am currently in the process of revamping my business. A new look, a new website and new products will be available very soon. Stay tuned!!!!!

McIntosh

2007-12-14T17:04:00.000-08:00

My last mini session!!! Unless somebody calls. Mr. C gave me a run for my money during this shoot. He is super cute, just really busy!! After looking through all of the pictures, these two were my favorite.

This picture says so much...

Look at that face!!!

Mattie

2007-12-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

For those that follow my blog, you might remember seeing Mattie, a beautiful Golden Retriever in the Williamson family picture. Mattie passed away this morning after a hit and run. She was a great dog and a beloved member of the Williamson family.

Please remember while driving to pay attention to the road...let the cell phone ring, listen to the commercials on the radio, etc. Always keep your eyes on the road!!

While I'm on the subject of animals, some of you may know that I am a huge supporter of animal adoption. My family has adopted two of our three animals. There are so many animals that are given away, put out on the side of the road, etc. only to end up in animal shelters. If you or anyone you know is considering an animal for Christmas, please consider visiting your local shelter. There are some many great animals out there that are need of a good home.

Happy Holidays!

In Memory of Mattie

another GORGEOUS family

2007-12-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

Texarkana is full of gorgeous families!!! And luckily I'm photographing them all!!! :) Mr. G was a C-U-T-I-E. Both of the guys did great during the session...and of course Mom did too!

the Williamson's

2007-12-04T21:26:00.000-08:00

For those that are familiar with my website, you'll recognize this family from my galleries. Aren't they a great looking family?! These are a couple of my favorites...

ok, ok...back to the christmas sessions

2007-12-03T21:09:00.001-08:00

Meet the Blue family. It rained all morning, but turned out to be a perfect day for taking pictures. Mr. T was a busy little man, but he did manage to sit still for a few pics.

baby belly

2007-12-03T21:06:00.000-08:00

Mommy and Daddy can't wait for Miss Adyson to make her appearance! Isn't this one of the cutest baby belly's you have seen?!?

a few faves of my own

2007-12-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post a couple of my recent favorite pictures. This handsome little devil is my wonderful, almost 2 year old. It is so amazing how fast he is growing and how much he is learning. Every single day is fun...and tiring!! :)

and this is a cute little frog that he and I found. I couldn't believe he sat on my finger long enough for me to get a few really good shots...(picture best viewed large)

The Jacksons

2007-12-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

Super cute family...the girls were precious and baby L was cute as a button! This family moved fast for me since we were running out of daylight very quickly. I decided to post this picture since this is probably what their days feel like every day. To all the parents out there...wouldn't you agree???

My sister, brother-in-law, nephew and nephew-to-be

2007-12-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

Nephew-to-be? Yep, my little sister is having another little boy!!! Here's a picture of them from Thanksgiving. And then of course I had to get one of Daddy giving some love to the new baby boy.

Tanya's crew...

2007-12-02T08:37:00.000-08:00

The third and final family on Sunday. This group was hilarious!! I caught as many pictures of them cracking each other up as I did of them posed and smiling at me. This is one of my favorites from the session.

Deana, Bob and Jacob

2007-12-02T08:31:00.000-08:00

This family was SO much fun to work with. You would think trying to get three people to smile and two puppies to look my way at the same time would be hard...but it wasn't. "Who wants a treat?" not only worked for the puppies, but also for Deana, Bob and Jacob (I think they were laughing AT me, but hey I'll do whatever it takes to get a good shot)!

The Mitchell session

2007-11-26T20:55:00.000-08:00

This was the first of three sessions I had on Sunday. The weather was cold and rainy, but luckily it stopped raining long enough for us to get a few shots outside.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T09:39:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to take a moment to tell everybody out there HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! I hope you all have lots of food, conversation and fun!! I will be spending Thanksgiving Day with my hubby's family and then the next day with my family. Then it's back to work on Sunday with THREE sessions!!! The weatherman calls for rain on Sunday, but I'm hoping we'll get lucky and see clear skies!!

another gorgeous family...

2007-11-19T22:36:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like trying to get a 2 1/2 year old and a 7 month old to look at the camera and smile at the same time. Fortunately I got lucky a couple of times. This is one of my favorite pictures...and one of the 2 1/2 year olds too! He loved being so close to the water.

and another...

2007-11-16T14:56:00.000-08:00

Today it was the Gonzalez family. From this picture can you guess who thinks he's still the baby? :) Baby C was happy the whole time.

Second mini session!!!

2007-11-16T14:26:00.001-08:00

Next was the Giddens...they have a gorgeous little 6 week old baby girl. She wasn't very happy when we started, but after having a snack she settled down and even fell asleep.

Davis Sneak Peak!!!

2007-11-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

My first family to partake in the Mini Holiday Session was the Davis'. As you can see they are a good looking family! The boys (including Dad) were all good sports and smiled for me the whole time. I had a great time!!

Here's a sneak peek...

Let the Madness BEGIN!!!!

2007-11-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today is my first Mini Holiday Session!!! It's one of many to come!!! Stay tuned for a sneak peek!!!!

Mini Holiday Sessions

2007-11-07T09:47:00.001-08:00

For $35 you get a 30 minute session for up to 4 people and 10-15 images to choose from to purchase. This has been a hit with my clients. Be sure to book your session today...my schedule is filling up fast!!!

NDHS Flagline

2007-11-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

From my alma mater...I was asked to photograph the flagline group for yearbook pictures. I had a blast!!! 12 girls and 10 of them were seniors!! We took group pictures and then I let them decide where they wanted to take individual shots. Of course most of them chose to perch on a rock...in the MIDDLE of the fountains!!! They did good, only one girl fell in!!