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The Power of a Great Speech: What I’ve Learned Photographing Events | Ashleigh Rose Photography

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  I photograph events for a living, but it's not the pretty decor or perfect lighting that sticks with me—it's the speeches. The awkward, the heartfelt, the hilarious, and the downright tear-jerking. This piece is a love letter to those moments when someone grabs the mic, ditches the script, and speaks from the heart—reminding us all why we gather in the first place. Whether it’s a 21st birthday or a backyard wedding, a great speech hits harder than any photo ever could. Here's why I live for them—and why every event needs one. Ashleigh Seton-Rogers Look, not only do I love photographing events, but I'm also a sucker for good human-made prose, and nothing beats a great speech at an event, right? Let's be real though—who actually likes public speaking? Very few people in fact it’s probably no. 3 of most people’s phobia – one being fear of spiders and the second, losing one’s phone. While it’s everyone's worst nightmare, I feel it's a must at any decent gathe...

Portrait vs Event Photography: Understanding the Cost Difference | Ashleigh Rose Photography

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  Portrait vs Event Photography: Understanding the Difference ​In the world of photography, the choice between portrait and event photography often comes down to personal preference. While both styles capture moments in time, they do so in different ways, each with its unique challenges and rewards.  Portrait photography typically focuses on capturing the essence of an individual or a small group in a controlled setting, allowing for thoughtful composition and attention to detail.  While event photography encompasses the spontaneous, energetic atmosphere of gatherings—whether it’s a wedding, corporate function, or family reunion—where the photographer must navigate a dynamic environment and often unpredictable moments.  Understanding these distinctions is crucial, not just for photographers but also for clients looking to determine where their investment will yield meaningful results. As we delve deeper into the nuances of both styles, we'll explore the various facto...

Matric Dances - A South African celebration and rite of passage | Ashleigh Rose Photography

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  The Matric Dance: A South African Celebration of Dreams and Identity Remember that feeling? The nervous excitement, the perfect outfit, the music pumping. It's Matric dance season! More than just a party, the Matric dance is the highlight of the South African school calendar. This formal dance marks the end of high school and the start of a new chapter.  AI image The Cultural Significance of the Matric Dance in South Africa In South Africa, the matric dance is more than just a party—it’s a cultural milestone, a symbolic bridge between youth and adulthood, and a moment that holds deep meaning for students, families, and communities alike. For many, it’s the first formal event of their lives. Months of planning go into finding the perfect outfit, the right hairstyle, and coordinating grand entrances—often with hired cars, professional photographers like Ashleigh Rose Photography, and even red carpets. But beneath the glitz lies something far more profound: the matric dance r...

Why Christmas Family Shoots Are a Must

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  Why Christmas Family Shoots Are a Must     A Christmas family photoshoot is a very special occasion. Despite being called a mini shoot, this shoot and the ones before it and the rest that follow, will all hold particular significance when you compare how your family has evolved over the years. The Magic of Christmas Family Photography The Christmas season is full of joy and togetherness. It's a time to make memories that last forever. A professional family photoshoot is a great way to capture some of these moments. Ashleigh Rose Photography is known for amazing Christmas family photos. They make the holiday spirit live on in your photos for years to come. Ashleigh ensures that every year, there is a newly curated Christmas scene that will delight your senses and make these sessions ones to look out for. In her studio, Ashleigh uses light to make your family's laughter and the twinkle in your children's eyes shine in photos. She offers both indoor and outdoor photo...