astrology

04.

decorating

03.

Mexican food

02.

traveling

01.

A few of my favorite things

I live in the good old heart of Virginia with my daughter Reagan, and our Yorkie Terrier, Daisy. I love being by the water whenever possible, and I'm the first to volunteer if there's water-skiing or wake-boarding involved. I'm passionate about spreading positivity and making an impact. When I'm not wearing my mom hat, there's a good chance I'm busy talking astrology with friends, aligning my chakras, giving back to local charities, eating taco bell or jamming out to country music during an intense editing session.

a deeper dive into who i am

In 2013, I was an aesthetician who had a knack for using my Canon Rebel T3 to take personal photos of my life and friends. That year, I took my first ever second-shooting gig for a wedding, marking the start of my hobby blooming into a small photography business.

Eight years later, my passion for documenting life's most precious moments and inspiring others to pursue their dreams has been my driving force as a seasoned business owner. I am a firm believer in pouring love into the people who support my goals and dreams, so don't be surprised when you receive a random text of encouragement, a 'thank you' package in the mail, or a personalized holiday card from my family to yours. Once we've worked together, we're in this thing for life, baby! 

How photography became an integral part of my life

I love to get to know my clients personally and stay connected long past our session. I can't wait to chat it up, and hope you enjoy getting to know a little bit more about me and my story as you keep reading!

I am a wedding and portrait photographer located in Richmond, VA who found her passion for photography through the desire to savor life's greatest and most cherished memories for others. Even as a young girl I would often be found with a camera in hand and I am grateful that I am able to live out my passion for photography as a career.

Hi, I'm Ashley!

Meet your photographer

Reagan was Born on March 30, 2018: after a long 17 hours in labor, I finally got to meet this beautiful little girl. Reagan is the biggest blessing to me and pushes me every day to not only be a great mom but to follow my dreams! Photography brings so much peace to my life and I love every moment and memory I capture. I cherish each moment of life so much more intensely now and hold the value of every memory so much higher. I truly believe this makes me a better photographer just as much as she makes me a better person! Reagan is the center of my entire world! 

All in all, becoming a mother is, hands-down, the best thing to ever happen to me. I have found so much more purpose and motivation for all that I do in my personal life and in business. Reagan is my "why"!

What I live for; My family

the many hats i wear

Since March 30th 2018 this beautiful little girl made me a mommy! I also am a mom to 3 fur babies too! Bella, Daisy and our newest addition Milo.

Mom

02.

For over a decade, my first love has been photography. But mostly weddings & families. Capturing beautiful moments for my clients will never get old.

Photographer

01.

No only am I photographer, but I truly love the business side of paper work, accounting, spread sheets, owning a studio and the numbers and behind the senes office work that come with running a business.

Business Owner

04.

My family and friends are my number one priority in my life! I truly have one of the best families - they are my rock and I don’t know where I would be without their support over the years.

Daughter, Sister, Friend

03.

I love being able to help and teach others what I have learned over the years. I plan to start offering more one on one sessions and volunteering at schools to teach children photography.

Teacher

04.

Garrett and I started dating October of 2022. We actually meet at a wedding and was introduced by one of my couples. He truly is my best friend, loves and adores me and my daughter and is my biggest cheerleader.

Girlfriend

03.

Curious what the giant camera bag is full of? Well, mostly camera equipment of course- but we have some Ashley essentials too!

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What's in My Bag?

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@ashleydortonphotography