Ashley Smith

Contact Ashley Smith

Ashley (she/they), owner of Wide Eyed Studios, is a Philadelphia-based luxury wedding photographer. Her diverse background in visual anthropology and theater photography honed a colorful visual voice and deepened her storytelling skills, allowing her to create dynamic, meaningful, intimate and bespoke wedding photography that resonates with clients. While weddings mark the beginning, life is filled with important moments, and she is dedicated to capturing them all. If you resonate with her bold, vibrant style, let's collaborate to capture your story with heart, humor, and honesty.

Where are you located? Do you charge a travel fee for weddings not in your location?

I'm based just outside of Philadelphia but am ready to travel anywhere!

How long have you been in business? How many weddings have you photographed as the main photographer?

I've owned my own business for 13 years and worked as a first shooter for another Philly company for 3 before that. I've been the main photographer on over 300 weddings.

Describe your "style" of wedding photography.

I am happiest when I'm capturing the little moments, fleeting emotions and the humor of ordinary situations. I love getting to know my couples and their families so that I can be more in tune with their story. A lot of my final product is candid -- I enjoy posing beautiful, artsy shots, but not as much as I love being in the middle of all the real emotion. To me, photojournalism is not just about the candid and unplanned, but also about creating real memories out of one of the best days of your life. I love bringing what I see to life, and at a wedding that means I'm usually just there with you shooting the real story of your day, almost like another family member who stands surprisingly close to you occasionally ;) That doesn't mean I can't do some posed imagery: a few family formals are important, and obviously some great portraits of you and your fiance. Even then, though, I'd rather find a unique way to show off your particular personalities. I love light and color and humor and drama and family and real connection, and if you do as well, then I think we may work well together.

What's the typical wedding coverage package that you offer? What is the price?

My typical package is 8 hours for $4000. I come with 4-6 lights, two cameras, and several lenses. Engagement/rehearsal/day after shoots and second shooters are available. I have very customizable services to work within people's budgets and to fit every event.

Do you have a studio where we can meet in-person?

I love meeting new people at favorite food spots if they are local, but will happily chat on Skype or a call if they aren't near Philly!

What are your professional degrees, credentials, affiliations? Have you taken any recent educational workshops or classes?

BA in Visual Anthropology and Gender Studies, MA in Photojournalism from BU, plus countless Fearless Workshops

Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself?

I love becoming the family photographer, not just the wedding day photographer! I photograph bumps, births, babies/families, furry friends, parties, and anything else my clients want to remember. Life isn't just one day, it's the whole journey.

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