Image Credit: http://mileswoodworth.com/
Today we’d like to introduce you to Raya Al-Hashmi.
Raya, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I used to sit in the windowsill of my second-story room in England, watching the neighbors walk by every morning. I would take notes on what time they walked their dogs, what they were wearing, and even the license plate numbers of the cars that drove by. This was the beginning of my journalism journey and my love for documentation, which would later evolve into the work I do today.
Fast forward to when I moved to the States and was introduced to my first mid-range digital camera. I immediately knew it was my new “second-story windowsill” and that it would play an important role in my life. Throughout high school, I photographed as much as I could, seizing every opportunity to hone my craft. In college, I continued refining my style, and through studying journalism, I came to see photography as the powerful tool it is.
Today, I’m a full-time photographer specializing in personal and business branding work on the Seacoast. I absolutely love what I do and the incredible people and brands I get to work with. It’s a privilege to stand alongside these brands, helping them expand and grow into the greatness they’re destined for.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been an experience of fear and freedom existing side by side. This journey has reminded me how wildly resilient and capable we all are and that when we embrace and use our talents, we can achieve anything.
Running a business wasn’t something that was prominent in my recent family history, and I didn’t study business myself, so I’ve had to teach myself a lot along the way. Thankfully, I’ve also had guidance from some incredible mentors.
Starting this company has been the most brilliant way to navigate the world, and it’s the path that makes me feel truly alive.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Raya on Assignment – what should we know?
Raya on Assignment is a business branding photography company. I work with everyone from entrepreneurs to international corporations to help share their stories through photography.
I focus on capturing the people, products, services, locations, and culture of a company to showcase their unique light. Building rapport and trust with my clients is my top priority—it all starts there. This is something my background in journalism taught me, and it’s a principle I carry into every project.
Being photographed can feel intimidating for some people, so I strive to create a comfortable environment. Once that connection is established, the rest flows naturally.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
All the photojournalists and photographers who were brave enough to share their work before me. And all the entrepreneurs and business owners who believed in something before it was tangible.
When I was starting this company, I emailed all the local photographers I could find and asked if they’d be willing to meet me for coffee. Most said yes, and that was a game-changer for me—not just because of what they said, but because they held space for me to share my dream out loud.
A specific inspiration on a more international level is Brandon Stanton of Humans of New York, who motivated and inspired me with my passion project, People of Portsmouth.
Brandon showed me that it’s all possible. He pushed me to see the beginning of the unlimited potential we all have.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.rayaonassignment.
Email: raya@rayaonassignment.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
Image Credit:
Miles Woodworth, Estefanía Rincón
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