Ashlee Burton

ARE YOU BASED IN MARIN? I am. I was born and raised in Marin, but haven't always lived here. I came back once we started our family.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SHOOTING PROFESSIONALLY? This is my 10th year of business.

TIPS FOR CALMING GRUMPY TODDLERS? Make the session fun for the kids. There is nothing better than a light, easygoing session and it's so much more enjoyable for everyone. I think if you can be a little silly with the kids it encourages connection which ultimately helps them to see you as someone other than a photographer with an intimidating camera between you guys. But for me, as a mom, the photos I cherish the most are the ones where my boys' real personalities come through, not necessarily the ones where everyone is smiling and looking at the camera. You'll get those photos at a later time in life, when they're able to keep their bodies still and can follow directions more easily. I usually remind the parents to stay close and to connect with their child whether that's an embrace, reaching for their hand, a gentle kiss on their temple, etc. and if the kids aren't having it, let them run around and be themselves. I'll do the chasing.

WHAT MAKES IT ALL WORTHWHILE? The people I have met from my sessions. The families I have gotten to know. Seeing some families year after year and being totally taken aback by how much the kids have grown. The absolute best part for me is the connection I feel fortunate enough to make with my clients. throughalenz.com