Ashley Kelemen: Photographer

Tell us a little about yourself, and what you do? I'm Ashley, and I photograph people in love! What’s your favorite part about your "job"? Not only am I present for some of the most significant moments in people’s lives, but I'm lucky enough to be the one who preserves those moments for them. Forever. It's a responsibility and a gift that I don't take lightly. What are your must have accessories? What can't you leave the house without? Mismatched staple earrings from Mowhawk General Store, giant sunglasses by Retro Super Future or Karen Walker, my iPhone and SPF 100! What is the most special/your favorite thing about where you live? I adore the way Los Angeles is always changing, and the way there is ALWAYS something new and interesting to do if you know where to look! When and why were you inspired to launch your own business? What got you into photography? I worked in the fashion industry for almost a decade, never quite feeling like it was the right fit, and the second I picked up a camera I knew I had found exactly what I wanted to do. My friend Alice Gao encouraged me to start shooting film, and that really helped me to find my niche in the photography world and wedding industry. If you could live anywhere in the world..where would you live and why? London. I can't quite explain it, but that city has always held a big chunk of my heart. I love the people, the weather, and the vibe. Since studying abroad there in college, I've dreamed of eventually making it a permanent home. Luckily, I'm able to visit semi-frequently with such a flexible schedule, and I'm slowly adjusting my spelling to the British versions of certain words. My friends judge me when I text them, but I figure if they love me, they'll get on board. What places are on your travel bucket list? Berlin, Australia, Hong Kong, Costa Rica and Sweden at the moment (I'm constantly traveling and that list is constantly shifting) What is one piece of advice you would tell young business women that are starting out? Surround yourself with talented and intelligent people who will both support you and challenge you to be better. Having an amazing group of humans to turn to for advice and knowledge, for a shoulder to cry on, to keep me company on road trips and during late night editing sessions, and for the occasional (and necessary) verbal bitch-slap has made all the difference for me. What is your guilty pleasure? Taking naps. What is your favorite thing to do on downtime? Taking naps....I really love taking naps. IG handle: @ashleykelemen