I'm Ashley.
In a room full of 37 photographers, what sets me apart? Let me share a bit about myself. I am a unique blend of El Salvadorian and American heritage, with a passion for coffee, a love for sports, and the ability to quote from Star Wars, The Avengers, and The Goonies. And amidst all of these, I specialize in capturing striking and memorable photographs.
Welcome to Ashley Orellana Photography. As you explore my portfolio, you'll discover a deep affection for life woven into every image. Photography, to me, is more than just a profession; it's a heartfelt endeavor to tell stories. Each photo, whether it showcases the intricate details of an event or the broad spectrum of human emotions, carries a narrative worth sharing.
It is my privilege to encapsulate those special moments—be it in a session, an event, or a sports match. I am dedicated to freezing in time the essence of what makes each moment unique and special.
I look forward to the opportunity of meeting you in person and possibly sharing a cup of coffee. In the meantime, embrace your day with confidence and joy.
It all started on a
point and shoot...
Ever since I was in the fourth grade, my passion for photography has been a defining part of my life. My father, then a media director, would create various digital projects at his computer, and I eagerly watched, inspired by his work. Eager to impress him, I picked up our family’s point-and-shoot camera and began shooting, with the hope of achieving more than just a casual “good job.”
Then, came the breakthrough: I captured a photograph of my kid sister that left everyone, including my dad, thoroughly impressed. It was the validation I was striving for. From that moment forward, my photographic journey took a more serious turn. I immersed myself in photography books, as YouTube tutorials were not yet an option, and honed my skills using a Nikon DSLR camera.
My talent began to attract attention, and people started to recognize my potential, often commenting, "This girl is actually good at this." By junior high, I had progressed to conducting photo shoots and assisting my father as a secondary shooter at weddings. By the time I reached high school, our roles had reversed; I was not only booking my own clients but also taking the lead as the primary photographer at weddings.
And the rest? Well, my journey in photography is far from over—I'm still capturing life, frame by frame.
1 out of 37: 1 woman, 36 men. Sports photography is a true passion of mine—a world where the lights, the camera, the action, and the fans come together in a symphony of human emotion. Whether they're friends, enemies, or strangers, people unite under the banner of a single game, rallying, lamenting, or celebrating their team. It truly embodies what is often called the beautiful game.
Amidst this vibrant atmosphere, I feel such pride capturing these moments from behind the lens. And yet, why are there so few women alongside me? The reality is, it's exhausting. It takes an extraordinary amount of effort to land a spot, secure approval for an event, and constantly prove that you're good enough.
In these moments, I think of all the women and girls I represent—the ones at home practicing their photography, those applying for their 10th credential, and those nervously showing their portfolios to anyone with eyes. These girls need a reminder that they aren’t alone and that the path, though difficult now, can be made smoother.
For those who almost quit, for those who need a beacon of hope, I strive to pave the way to a future where women feel wanted and appreciated in sports photography. You’re not alone—we’re in this together, and our presence might be small now, but we aim to carve out a stronger foothold in this amazing field.
