Daily Inspiration: Meet Ashley Mercer

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

Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
It all started in Pontiac, Michigan with a backpack full of disposable cameras at the Vans Warped Tour in 2003. That opened the photography flood gates for me. I was born and raised outside of Detroit, Michigan and in 2009 I relocated to Columbus, Ohio to attend the Columbus College of Art & Design where I graduated in 2012 with a BFA in Fine Arts with a focus in Photography. Ever since I have run my own small business in the Midwest and have worked with everyone from EXPRESS to Jim Belushi.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No road is ever smooth but it’s about how you navigate that road and what sort of tires life has equipped you with. One of the most important lessons college taught me was how to network and that’s how you open doors. I’ve also learned that being vulnerable is not a bad thing. Stick your neck out! The least they can do is say “No” but at least you tried and you never know where that could lead you to. Struggling to get to your goal is what helps to grow and teaches you what we do and don’t want out of life and work.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in fashion, music and concert photography and anytime the worlds collide it’s pure magic! I’m proud to say I’ve been able to work with everyone from families and couples to fashion models and rock stars. I love the diversity of my work and am proud to be able to bend and create based on client needs. Whether I’m shooting jewelry on set or photographing employees in an aluminum factory I put my passion, care and attention to detail behind any project. To me photography is about capturing moments and creating the unreal with light. I also enjoy shooting film when I’m not on set or with clients, and it really helps me slow down and honor what I’m about to capture.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
On top of photography I also work as a Producer and Production Assistant on regional production sets and I hope this opportunity leads to more wonderful clients and experiences.

Pricing:

• $500/Hour
• $350/Half Hour
• $1,400/Full Day
• $350/Day for Retouching
• $4,000/Full Day Wedding

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ashleymercerphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleymercerphoto
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleymercerphoto
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-mercer-73393182/
• Other: https://youpic.com/ashleymercerphoto