Meet Ashley Stout

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Stout.

Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I always enjoyed photography growing up and would play around with old cameras. When I got to college at Clemson, I joined the newspaper staff and because Photo Editor. I got to photograph a ton of sports, primarily football, and through that, I met a lot of other amazing photographers and videographers who taught me the basics when I had no clue what I was doing. Towards the end of college, I started to practice portraits, and I eventually moved to doing weddings before going to grad school. I wouldn’t be where I am with my photography without my amazing friends who allowed me to take their photos or referred me to others.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I had a tough time financially for a while, as photography is not a cheap hobby. I had to do a ton of sessions for cheaper when I was starting out and penny-pinch to buy the equipment I wanted and needed to go further. It’s also tough to gain clients and interest over time; you have to work really hard to get your name out there and keep things consistent. Overall though, I would say I’ve been very supported with my journey!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My full-time job is as a Physician Assistant in the Burn ICU at UNC! It’s a tough job but also extremely rewarding. My biggest accomplishments range from helping a patient survive through the acute stages of a trauma to allowing a peaceful death for those who have endured unimaginable suffering.

I also do photography on the side, and while it may seem totally disconnected from my medical career, I’ve always viewed them as being woven together. Both allow for me to think creatively, feel deeply, and adapt to individuals and specific situations. There’s truly an art to medicine that I don’t think I would be able to appreciate if I didn’t pursue photography and other arts. A huge goal of mine is to photograph medical mission work and even illustrate medical literature one day.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Apps: Lightroom, Tezza, Unfold Books: When Breath Becomes Air. Podcasts: The Popcast.

Instagram: @abbeylmoore (my favorite photographer and overall inspiration), @wearetheparsons, @michellelyerly, @megangielow, @sarahkbyrne

Pricing:

• Portraits: $200 (+ travel)

Contact Info:

• Email: ashleytstout@gmail.com
• Website: ashleystoutphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleytstout/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleystoutphotography