Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Diabo.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
In 2017, I launched my very first business, “Ashley Diabo Photography”. I spent a few months building my portfolio and before I knew it, business was booming. After almost a year of being in business, I decided it was time to rebrand and name the company after my dad, who passed away in 2015. After all, I believe he’s the reason my photography business has taken off.
My dad lost his fight to depression on August 7, 2015. After I lost him, I lost a piece of me. I spent years coping and eventually sunk into a deep depression. After 2 (long) years, I can honestly say that I’m getting better. I take medicine to regulate my depression and have learned multiple strategies to put my mind as ease. I also nanny two boys (2 & 6m) full time, who never cease to put a smile on my face. Between them and photography, I’m able to kick my depression’s butt!
A few questions I seem to get asked a lot is “What is the meaning behind the name Sea You Smile Photography?” and “Why did you choose SEA as opposed to SEE?” Well, my dad loved to fish. He would take me and my mom to Castle Island, in Boston, all of the time. I still remember our weekly fishing trips (just me and him). I’d help my dad put the bait on the rod, throw the line and impatiently wait (I mean, I was a kid, ha). When I caught my first fish, I was pretty young (maybe 6) and I still remember the joy it brought to my dad’s face… he was so proud.
My dad spent all of his extra time seaside, which is why I chose “SEA” as opposed to “see”. As for the smile part, I wanted to let clients know that capturing smiles is what brings me joy, just like fishing brought joy to my dad’s life.
Please tell us about your art.
My art is in my photography. I don’t just take pictures; I capture your life, one chapter at a time. I want future clients to know that I really strive to give everyone a positive experience and I am extremely passionate about what I do. Book a session with me, and you’ll see!
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
Current conditions for art have made it harder for small businesses to be recognized. In the Photography industry, photographers are now fighting for the spotlight due to smartphones. Everyone has a smartphone and most people know how to take pictures, but does that make them a photographer? In my eyes, a photographer is someone who spends countless hours gaining more knowledge to use for future sessions. Or someone who buys the most expensive equipment because they know it’ll be worth it when their clients see their images. Or someone who spends days trying to perfect their images before they deliver them. That, to me, is a real photographer.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My work can be found on most social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter; as well as my website: www.seayousmilephotography.com. (A new website is coming soon so subscribe to stay tuned)! There are tons of ways people can support my work! But honestly, just viewing my work and taking the time to like or share an image would be awesome!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.seayousmilephotography.com
- Phone: 617-996-0004
- Email: seayousmilephotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/seayousmilephotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/seayousmilephotography
Image Credit:
Ashley Diabo of Sea You Smile Photography.
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