Through the Lens of Resilience

Photographer Spotlight: Ashleigh of Kimarie Photography

By Photos By Me’Cshell @photosbymecshell

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but for Ashleigh, some photographs are worth a lifetime. Through the lens of resilience, photography for her is never just about images — it’s about capturing life before it slips away, moments that might otherwise fade from memory, and the spirit of the people she photographs.

Ashleigh, the woman behind Kimarie Photography, captures more than just images—she preserves moments, emotions, and the essence of family. Inspired by the memory of her late aunt, she has built a photography business rooted in authenticity, connection, and storytelling. Her journey through life’s trials, including surviving cancer and a TIA, has deepened her perspective, making every session a meaningful celebration of life’s fleeting moments.

From intimate family sessions to vibrant events, Ashleigh’s work reminds us that life is happening right now, and the photos we take today are the memories we hold tomorrow. She is committed to helping families see the beauty in the ordinary, embrace their unique stories, and treasure every fleeting moment together.

Photo Credit: Sky Pie Photography Studio

The Heart Behind Kimarie

The name Kimarie comes from her late aunt, Kimberley Marie, whose passing in 2013 changed the course of Ashleigh’s life.

“The heart behind Kimarie Photography is Kimberley Marie. My Nanny (Aunt) who we lost tragically in 2013. In a very sad low moment, I ran across a photo of her. Just her being her, and it lit me up. While I’ve always enjoyed taking photos, this moment helped me see the true value a photo can hold. In the end, they’re all that we have left. I knew I wanted to make sure that other families knew just how important photos are, and I wanted to be the one to help them ensure they documented their families.”

That single photo became the heartbeat of Kimarie Photography — a name that stands for family, strength, and belonging. For Ashleigh, it’s about celebrating who you are right now — not waiting for a perfect moment, outfit, or milestone.

“Life passes by too fast. Kids grow up in a blink, loved ones leave us, and you just need to make sure to capture your family.”

Finding Her Way

Ashleigh’s first steps into photography were instinctive and joyful.

“Honestly, I had no clue this would go beyond a hobby. I really can’t tell you what first drew me to photography. I just liked taking photos of any and everything — family gatherings, holidays, you name it.”

Her passion gradually turned into a full-blown business she never expected to grow the way it did.

“I just wanted to take photos for families. I hadn’t looked ten years down the line and saw myself growing the way that I have. Can’t say I don’t like it, though.”

Photo Credit: Kimarie Photography

The Magic Behind the Lens

Spend any time around Ashleigh, and you’ll realize that the magic of her sessions doesn’t come from fancy setups or stiff poses — it comes from connection.

“That magic comes from being intentional about who I work with. During the consultation, the chemistry has to be there. If we’re not laughing it up during the consult, if it’s hella weird and awkward, then I know it won’t be a good ‘marriage’ between the two of us. That tells me I’m not YOUR photographer. And that’s okay. I want you to find YOUR person and get exactly what you want, even if it isn’t with me.”

Her photography style is organic, fun, and timeless, and her approach ensures people feel real and comfortable.

“Beautiful images come from photographing beautiful people. Their spirit, heart, and character — that’s what makes them beautiful. Me getting them out of their own head and encouraging them to just enjoy the session is truly what makes it seem natural.”

Photographing People as They Are

Ashleigh’s work is about storytelling. From intimate family sessions to large events, her goal is always the same: capture authentic relationships.

“Events move faster than intimate family sessions, that’s for sure. But my approach is the same. I am there to tell a story, to catch organic relationships as they’re happening. I’m just doing it with about 50 to 100 extra people in the room.”

Her most cherished moments often come from the little, unexpected interactions.

“A mom whose toddler twins would not cooperate. I told her we are going to let them be them. We brought out the bubbles and other reinforcements, and I caught the sweetest moment where one twin was amazed by the bubbles and Mom sat there loving every moment of her baby’s smile. THAT was the photo she ended up loving. Couldn’t even tell that just minutes before she was ready to pull her hair out because it wasn’t ‘perfect’ in her mind.”

Photo Credit: Kimarie Photography

Facing Life Head-On

Ashleigh has faced life-threatening health challenges, including cancer and a TIA, experiences that reshaped her perspective and strengthened her commitment to capturing life’s fleeting moments.

“My health matters more than anything else — even money, ’cause what good is money if I’m not here to spend it or share it? I am even more vocal now about not waiting to take that family photo. Life is happening every single day. Gather your people and take the photo. No more waiting ‘until.’ I’ve seen too many instances where ‘until’ never came for some families, and it truly breaks my heart.”

Her personal journey has deepened her storytelling, especially with mothers and families.

“I pay more attention to the mom during my sessions now than I ever did before since watching my own mom look at her baby fight for her life.”

She also focuses on personal projects to give survivors a voice and embrace the beauty in the scars and changes of life.

The Power of a Village

When life gets heavy, Ashleigh leans on her people.

“Family helps me get through those hard moments. Mine was cancer. My village gathered around me and held me up. Get you a village and learn to rest when your body tells you to.”

She applies the same principle to her business.

“If it costs my peace, it’s not worth it. You keep your money, I keep my peace, and we’ll call it even.”

The Legacy She’s Building

Ashleigh wants her clients to feel seen, heard, and emotional through their photos.

“Call me crazy, but I want to make you cry! I want your heart to explode to the point it starts coming out of your eyes. I want you to feel pride looking at your images. I want the emotions to consume you to the point where you can’t take your eyes off it. I want you to feel that same pride when you look at those photos 10 years down the line as well.”

Her message to families is simple but profound:

“The days are long but the years are short. Don’t put off professional photos for the next big occasion. The big occasion these days is that we’re all still here.”

Looking Ahead

Ashleigh practices self-care and protects her peace by pacing herself, taking Sundays off, and giving herself permission to rest.

“I used to view rotting on the couch as unproductive. Now I know those recovery days matter.”

Her future projects include more personal work centered on women navigating health challenges and celebrating their resilience.

“I have goals of doing more personal projects centered around women who are either recently diagnosed, going through treatment, or those who are surviving and thriving.”

For what’s next at Kimarie Photography, Ashleigh simply states:

“Just have to wait and see!”

One thing is clear — her work, heart, and vision continue to honor the memory of her aunt, the importance of family, and the beauty in every fleeting moment.

Stay Connected

Stories like Ashleigh’s remind us why we pick up our cameras in the first place — to feel, to remember, and to hold on to the moments that shape us. Her journey through strength, survival, and creativity is a testament to the power of art and the beauty of perseverance.

If her story moved you, take a moment to connect with us at @608Carver — a community that celebrates photographers who capture life with heart, purpose, and soul. Every like, share, and follow helps us continue shining a light on artists like Ashleigh, whose work reminds us that even the smallest moments can leave the biggest mark.

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