Meet Ashley Hernández | Advertising Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Hernández and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
There are many answers to this question and no single answer would be enough, but one of my main goals is to build a community where photographers can have a resource of business guidance. It is something that I had to learn the hard way and I think sharing this sort of experience with new photographers would help them enormously. I consider that the key to anything even to success as a photographer is by giving back to the community and paying it forward.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Florida photographer born in Venezuela, taking over advertising work for liquor companies. Today I can say that it is one of the best things that have happened to me in life; my profession is a very important part of everyday life and I like it more every day. My work is my joy, energy, and passion. I started capturing images more than a decade ago, but it wasn’t until 4 years ago that I got into still-life photography. Like everyone else, I started with many doubts, I was in New York at the time and the industry was very competitive. I used that period of time as an opportunity to grow and learn from many talented photographers I would meet or work with. I came back to Miami hoping to share what I learned from the big city. Every day my business grows, as an individual I keep nurturing myself with new skills and it is a pleasure to see how the ideas I have come fruition. In conclusion, as the saying goes it isn’t work if you love what you do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would kick off our day on South Pointe for the glorious weather by spending some time soaking up the sand and sun. Grab a smoothie at Pura Vida Miami and head towards Kush at Wynwood and the walls by crossing the Venitian Way on a bicycle. After having lunch I would likely suggest to visit Miami Design District not only because of the glamours stores but because of my favorite ice creams store “Aubi and Ramsa” ( I love the Agave Dulce de Leche ice cream). If my friend happens to be into skateboarding without a doubt I would take them to Lot 11 Skatepark in downtown Miami, not only is it always a blast but you can snap some really good shadows and shades there too! Every B&W photographers dream. Otherwise depending on our mood that day Phuc Yea, Taquiza, Bodega, Broken Shaker, Sweet Liberty and many others to name!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In my case, I have been fortunate to encounter several valuable mentors throughout my photographic career. Before moving to the US, I came across my greatest mentor Oswaldo Suels. A fine arts Summa Cum Laude graduate of Altos de Chavon School of Design, currently the founder and creative director of Casa Lycana. Over the years he continues sharing his advice whenever I need it. Fast forward to my journey in the US where I was fortunate to meet several individuals that pushed my career even further such as the very talented photographer Ginny Dixon and teacher at Miami AD School who continues to be my guide and friend. Her tough love to me and spot on critique when I was her student helped shape me for the opportunities that would later unfold. Also the Creative Director of Buck Bay Media Julia Purcell who gave me not only the opportunity but believed in me and gave me roles such as PA, Retoucher, & Photographer.

Website: https://www.ashernandez.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashernandezg/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyhernandezg/