In light of International Women’s Day, I just have to talk about one of the most badass women I know:  Mackenzie Wilson. Mackenzie (aka, Miss Mackenzie to her students) is a special education teacher for Wallingford Public Schools.  Not only is she a superhero in the school’s classroom, ensuring her students get what they educationally […]

We all love to get together with family over the holidays.  Between extended relatives coming to visit, children coming home from college, or just getting together with friends we haven’t seen all year, this is the perfect season to create memories with them. Why not capture those moments too? If you’re like most people, I […]

How to Mix All the Colors The goal for coordinating outfits is to visually break up the colors and shades so that you’re not all wearing the same color on top and bottom (like everyone in blue jeans with white shirts). The more you can mix it up, the better! I encourage you to think […]

Portrait Session Checklist  Message Ashlie to schedule a date, time, and location  hello@ashliesteinau.com If necessary, schedule hair and makeup appointments with Ashlie or another source Review Style Guide for outfit inspiration  Choose your outfits (drop off at dry cleaner if needed!)  Girls, get your nails done, boys, make sure your nails are trimmed and clean […]

Prepping Your Little Ones Setting expectations before your session is the key to great photos and happy kids.  Before your session, pack a bag with water and your kids’ favorite snacks. If they’re too young to follow directions, bring any objects that you think might help me get their attention (like small toys or stuffed […]

For all of you mamas that are unable to have a photographer at your birth or fresh 48 due to COVID or another maternal-fetal problem preventing the images you adore, here are some helpful hints for you to take great photos on your phone or with your own camera!     BIRTH IS SPECIAL. MOMS […]

“WHY DO YOU LOVE TAKING MATERNITY AND NEWBORN PORTRAITS?” Photography has been a passion of mine for many years.  However, my passion for maternity and newborn portraits runs deeper.  Keep reading… it is quite a story, and one that, perhaps, you may even share pieces of. HOLIDAY MEMORIES As I placed the special ornaments for all my […]

I’m right smack dab in the middle of the holiday season and cranking out the COOLEST cards. It got me thinking, what are you waiting for if you haven’t done yours yet? IT’S EXPENSIVE… I CAN DO IT MYSELF CHEAP I completely understand where you are coming from and how you feel.  Many feel this […]

Be rest assured that prior to your session with me, I have done my research on your location to grasp the best areas to shoot in the most perfect lighting! Unless we are shooting outside of the local area, I visit the site of choice before every shoot to ensure we capture the most beautiful […]

STYLING YOUR SESSION-FEMININE If you want your portrait session images to look and feel a little more editorial, I recommend bringing a few small, simple props with you, like fresh flowers to hold or a blanket to sit on. If you want to incorporate another special element into your session, just let us know! Maybe […]