for as long as i can remember i’ve been behind the lens of a camera
It started with an obsession over disposable cameras, then camcorders, then film photography in high school, to me purchasing my first digital camera with all the money I made from my first job at Target when I was 18. I was honestly raised to believe that one cannot have a successful career in the arts. It wasn't until I was living in a new city by myself, lost as all hell and suffering through my first Chicago winter that I finally realized that doing what makes you happy in life is the only thing that matters. Photography is my passion, plain and simple.
hey, i’m Ashlyn!
I’m originally from Austin, Texas, and graduated from The University of Texas in 2016. After a quick stop living in New Orleans and jobs across the spectrum—from the legal system, to the service industry, to veterinary care—I realized nothing quite fit. Thankfully, I never ended up in law school and instead followed my heart to Chicago, which I fell in love with at eleven years old on a trip with my mom and brother, and I knew one day I’d live here.
In 2026, I’ll be starting a new chapter in Boston. A true Gilmore Girl at heart, I’ve always been drawn to New England’s charm, its smaller-city feel, and its connection to nature. It’s bittersweet to leave Chicago, but the best part is I’ll be back often through this amazing job of mine.
Now, nearly seven years into photographing weddings, I’ve documented hundreds of celebrations in more than a dozen states—and even internationally in Italy and Scotland. I’m endlessly grateful to the couples who’ve trusted me to capture their stories, both near and far.
A few of my favorite things? Architecture, live comedy, self-development, knitting, Ralph Lauren, a good cup of herbal tea, criminally long podcast walks, cozy snow days, and anything by Leon Bridges. And, of course, my three senior pets—Bear (pictured here) and Zoe and Ollie (my cats)—who have been with me through every chapter of my 20s and mean the world to me.
a few fun facts about me
-
I have an addiction to all things life coaching and self development. In 2020, I listened to over 20,000 minutes of self development podcasts and I wouldn't be a full-time wedding photographer right now if I hadn't! When I discovered Jen Sincero's "You Are a Badass" in 2019, it really changed my perspective on a lot of things. I owe so much to that woman, as well as Jay Shetty, Ed Mylett, Brooke Castillo and Natalie Bacon. I am now quite literally living the life I have been dreaming of since I was 11 and I have to pinch myself on a regular basis.
-
There is nothing that brings me more joy than a nice (8 mile) stroll through Chicago or Boston. Seriously, I walk like crazy. The first weekend I visited Boston, I walked over 35 miles and my feet were bleeding. I have also walked over 17 miles around Chicago in one day — the architecture is everything to me. My camera roll on my phone is just filled with random, beautiful homes. I particularly love the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park and Hyde Park in Chicago and Charlestown and Beacon Hill in Boston. Now that I live in Logan Square, I explore the 606 with my dog, Bear, on a daily basis and we love the historic neighborhood streets in Wicker Park. My favorite buildings in Chicago are Marina Towers and the Carbide and Carbon building. I love the history of Chicago architecture and the architecture boat rides are my favorite thing. Shooting in historic, iconic Chicago buildings (like The Drake, The Old Post Office, Londonhouse, The Rookery, etc.) is the absolute best part of my job.
-
I lived in Austin, TX for most of my adolescence but for a year in high school, I got to live in Edinburgh, Scotland. I really can’t even find the words to describe what this experience was like for me— unforgettable. I got to go back there in 2024 for a dear friend’s wedding that I went to school with! Also unforgettable. After I graduated from UT, I lived in New Orleans for a year interning with the Public Defenders Office. It was such an amazing experience but when that wrapped, I moved to Chicago and have lived here since 2017! A piece of my heart is in each one of the cities and always will be.
In 2026, I am moving to Boston, Massachusetts! Which will be my 5th city. I can’t wait to live there!
-
R&B, Soul, and Jazz are basically the only genres that I listen to. Every now and again, I throw in some variety but for the most part, you can pretty much guarantee I'm listening to Leon Bridges, Sam Cooke, Chuck Berry, or Son Little. The songs that these men have sang are true works of art. I had never listened to any of these artists until I moved to Chicago and now I can’t listen to anyone else.
-
Live comedy holds a very real place in my heart. I have always had huge admiration for stand up comedians and musical comedians. Back in college in Austin, I went to open mics and improv shows constantly. I learned about The Second City when I was very young and I became obsessed with it when I moved to Chicago. I was seeing shows there practically every weekend so I figured I may as well get a job there. During my 2 years as a server during the live shows, I saw some of the rawest talent in the world. Every night, I was surrounded by laughter and improvisation and I was honestly addicted to it. I have never wanted to pursue comedy myself but I can't think of anything in the world that I love more. My favorite comedians include Bo Burnham, Andrew Knox, and E.R. Fightmaster.