Ashley Barnett (Ashley Barnett Photography)
- Elisabeth Caraballo
- Nov 6, 2018
- 5 min read
My name is Ashley and it is my desire to tell the unique stories of our world, one series at a time. As a travel photographer, it is my goal to go to the most remote places around the globe, engage with unique and eclectic individuals from all walks of life, and document everything I can. I am always seeking to capture the authentic moments in the lives of those I encounter. This thirst to discover new perspectives has taken me to every corner of the world, and even though I have traveled to all seven continents, I feel as though I have only just begun.
EC: What kind of traveler are you?
AB: I am a travel photographer! Majority of the subject matter I shoot includes candid portraits, landscapes, drone photography, and some wildlife. Through my photographs, I hope to tell visual stories that capture the realities and emotions of those I observe around the globe and to share my experiences to hopefully inspire others to pursue their passions.
EC: You’re an amazing Travel Photographer! How did you get started in this field? Why?
AB: Photography is my passion, but my educational background is in law. I am an attorney and (soon to be) PhD studying the anthropological and legal significance of religion, culture, and the human experience around the globe. My time in this field has given me a great appreciation for how culture has shaped human experience in myriad ways throughout the world. I am incredibly fortunate to be able to share my observations of culture through the art of visual stories.
EC: You’ve been to 45+ countries and all 7 Continents. What’s the one place you have been so far that has made the biggest impact on your life?
AB: While there have been many destinations that hold a special place in my heart, one experience that made a significant impact on my life was my most recent trip to Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, I volunteered and worked at an animal conservation that protected many species of animals, including all of the Big Five animals. Although I was primarily there to shoot images and videos for new marketing and educational material, every day I had the opportunity to volunteer in the local community. The time I spent in the local village tending the gardens with the high school students, pumping well water for a women’s support group, securing the borders of the preserve with anti-poaching measures, and reading with young children, will stay with me forever. Traveling is much more than seeing new places, it is about giving back and making the world a little better than when you found it.
EC: Where in the world is your favorite place to visit? Why?
AB: Unquestionably, the most unique destination I have ever visited is Antarctica. Antarctica is unlike any place in the world and is a photographer’s dream. The largest untouched wilderness in the world, Antarctica is an extraordinary continent of rich history of adventure and exploration, stunning natural beauty, and home to many animals found nowhere else in the world. Despite feeling extremely seasick during the Drake Passage crossing, it is still my favorite destination I have ever traveled to. It is truly magnificent.
EC: What do you think is the biggest sacrifice you have made for the sake of traveling?
AB: The biggest sacrifice I have made for the sake of traveling is being away from my family. My family means everything to me. Thankfully with modern technology, video chatting makes me feel a little closer to home.
EC: Have you had any scary moments while on your travels?
AB: The scariest moment I have experienced traveling was on a helicopter ride in Alaska. I decided to take a helicopter ride to the top of the glacier to go dogsledding. On the return ride, one of the side doors of the helicopter abruptly flew open as we were making a turn on the side I was sitting on. The pilot made an emergency landing on a different glacier, fixed the door, and we made it back safely. It was very nerve-wracking to say the least.
EC: How has travel changed you?
AB: Travel has changed me in so many ways; most significantly, it has allowed me to experience the world. Traveling is much more than visiting a new destination or having a nice vacation – it is about immersing yourself in other cultures, opening yourself to new experiences, and learning to appreciate different life perspectives. Although I have been out of my comfort zone many times while traveling, I would never trade those adventures for the unforgettable experiences and people I have encountered around the world.
EC: Who is your travel inspiration?
AB: A person whose career I admire is Shannon Wild. Shannon is not only passionate about her professional craft of photography and cinematography, but as a wildlife lover, she travels around the world and uses her images to advocate for the importance of conservation. She has worked as a wildlife photographer and cinematographer for clients such as NatGeo Wild, WildAid, the United Nations, as well as various wildlife NGO’s and non-profits along with commercial campaigns for Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Bvlgari and Converse. Did I mention she has also written three books? The woman is a force of nature.
EC: Where is your next travel destination going to be? Why?
AB: The upcoming trip I am most excited for is my expedition with Silversea Cruises. This will be my second sailing to the Galapagos Islands on the Silver Galapagos. Sailing from San Cristobal to Baltra, I will be exploring the western side of the islands where I will encounter giant tortoises, sea lions, manta rays, walk on lava fields, free dive, and much more. The Galapagos Islands are incredibly unique because it is one of the most isolated places in the world to experience a variety of indigenous species and to learn about the rich history made famous by Charles Darwin. I cannot wait to return!
EC: What advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about becoming a “Travel Photographer?
AB: The best advice I can give someone about becoming a travel photographer is:
Find your niche; be adaptable; and hone your craft.
Photography can transport us, it can help us tell stories when words are not enough, and it can truly convey the humanity of a moment. Capturing authentic, candid moments is my passion. Discover what subject matter you are most passionate about -- landscapes, animals, people, architecture -- and focus on perfecting your technique while shooting those subjects in various conditions. Finally, be open minded and adaptable when things do not go as planned. Traveling can be unpredictable and full of new experiences. Keep exploring!
Contact Info:
Instagram: @ashley_travels
Email: ashleytravelsphoto@gmail.com
