Nice to meet you!

I'm Ashlee

 

I was born in Des Moines, grew up in Boone, and am now based in Grimes, Iowa. Photography has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I officially started my business in 2019. I completed my Associate’s Degree in Photography and am currently attending Simpson College to earn my Bachelor’s Degree in Interactive Media.


My family and fur babies mean everything to me. When I’m not behind the camera, I’m usually balancing mom life, editing way too late at night, coaching soccer, studying, chasing creative ideas, or romanticizing everyday moments I know I’ll miss someday.


I’m a lover of music, vinyl records, coffee, rain, abandoned buildings, and Call of Duty. I’m loud, creative, blunt, colorful, and proud — and my hair color is almost always changing, so it may be different every time you see me.


I’m not the photographer who expects you to magically know how to pose or act perfectly in front of a camera. I’m here to guide you, hype you up, make you laugh, and capture the real moments in between.


I care less about creating “perfect” photos and more about creating images that feel like memories — the kind that bring you back to a laugh, a feeling, a season of life, or a person you never want to forget.


You do not need to know how to pose, what to do with your hands, or how to “look natural.” That’s my job — and honestly, some of the best moments happen when you stop trying to be perfect anyway.


Whether you’re planning a wedding, documenting your growing family, celebrating a milestone, or simply wanting to freeze a season of life before it changes — I’d love to help tell your story.


 

Motherhood

I'm a wife and mom of five! So chaos, noise, weird personalities, and plans going completely off-script don't scare me. Honestly, that's probably part of why I'm so drawn to documenting real life instead of trying to make everything look perfect.

Photography

My hobby photography is landscape and architecture, specifically abandoned buildings. I love to photograph weddings and dark and moody shoots. My favorite form of photography is surrealism which is a mix between fantasy and reality.

A few more facts about me

I started the business

At 27

I'm obsessed with

Halloween

my happy place

playing call of duty

I have a degree in

Photography &

Interactive MEdia

Favorite music

EVERYTHING, SERIOUSLY.

My best friend

My dogs!

For the people who feel awkward in front of a camera

Why AK photo & design?

I believe the best photographs happen when you're comfortable enough to just be yourself. Whether that means laughing until your stomach hurts, embracing the chaos of family life, or sharing a quiet moment with someone you love, I'm there to capture it. I'll give you direction when you need it, but I'll never expect you to be anyone other than yourself.

READY FOR PHOTOS THAT ACTUALLY FEEL LIKE

YOU?

No perfect posing required. Just show up as you are, and I'll take care of the rest.