Meet Ashley Marker | Family Photographer & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Marker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Facing challenges has been one of the most propelling elements of success in my business. Anytime I have faced a challenge in the past, I was forced to step outside my comfort zone to take risks that I otherwise would not have taken. Those risks have always led to better places in my business. Now I look at challenges from a different perspective. I see them as opportunities to grow. I think it’s a vital mindset to have in order to thrive.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a family photographer and educator based in Southern Kansas. I operate my business on our family’s cattle ranch in the heart of the Southern Kansas Flint Hills. As a mom to 3 young children, I realize how fast the seasons change. The little everyday moments that are easy to take for granted are gone in the blink of an eye. Not too long ago, I remember that my son had the cutest little dimples on his hands. I adored how sweet and soft they were! One day recently, I looked down and noticed his hand dimples were gone. It broke my heart because I don’t really remember when the last time was that I noticed seeing them. It is bittersweet because I love the boy he is becoming but I also know that this means we are one step closer to his hands outgrowing mine. *cue the tears* I have some cherished photos with his hands in them and seeing those sweet dimples warms my heart. I will cherish those photos forever. As a photographer, my goal is to serve my clients with meaningful photos of the simple everyday moments that matter the most to them so they can relive their favorite memories time and time again. This is why I created Adventure Sessions in the Flint Hills.

Adventure Sessions are all about the experience. My clients receive a luxury experience from beginning to end. It’s like a photoshoot mixed with a fun excursion in the country! I invite my clients to come out to the ranch to spend an evening away from the hustle of this crazy life to make fun memories together. I’ll be there to capture them all.

I also now have the wonderful opportunity to mentor talented photographers from around the globe through online and in-person mentorships and workshops. I am passionate about helping other photographers build and grow their business and craft just like I did mine! I love teaching how I capture storytelling photos that are meaningful to my clients and how to edit with beautiful bold rich color.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While we are far from the fast-paced city life, there are still plenty of fun adventures that await in the area! Kansas has a bad rep as being “flat” with it’s landscape but that is far from the actual truth! A romantic countryside drive is always a good idea in the scenic Flint Hills with views of the setting sun. Life moves at a slower pace here so grab a blanket, head to the lake and lay out to experience the most luminous dazzling diamonds in the nighttime sky! Visit the historical landmark of where Helium was first discovered or Henry’s Candy Co in Dexter, KS. Another gem in Dexter is The West Riley- an adorable antique shop collection of vintage furniture, home decor, and more! If you are in the mood for some delicious grub, then a short drive over to Sedan, Kansas is your best bet! Sedan is home to my favorite ice-cream and coffee shop, called Aunt B’s! If you want to experience the best, melt-in-your-mouth ribeye steak dinner then Bucks BBQ wins the golden ticket without a doubt! I also love taking a day trip to Pawhuska, Oklahoma. There is plenty to do to fill a day full of fun!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be where I am today without God first and foremost. Being both a business owner and a mother is challenging and I have an incredible support system. I also am blessed to have an incredibly supportive husband who has been my biggest cheerleader through all of the seasons of my business. I am also very thankful for my village of family and friends.

Website: www.ashleymarkerphotography@gmail.com

Instagram: Ashleymarkerphotography