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

Hi Ainsley, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because it truly is my passion. I have always been a creative from a very young age. All throughout my education the one thing I always looked forward to was my art and photography classes. I knew that when I was finding my career path that I wanted to find something that truly made me happy. I feel so grateful to have found that!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I began my photography journey at just 10 years old! I begged and begged my mom for a camera and once I got one I felt like I have never put it back down. Throughout middle school and high school I always found ways to have photography in my daily life. From being in photography class, to being in yearbook club, and doing photo shoots with my friends!

When I was 16 years old I got an assistant job working for a local Real Estate Photography/ Videography Company. That Company was named Buell Productions and is owned by the lovely Margaret Buell! I worked for her for 3.5 years learning and receiving so much education not only about photo/ video but how to run a successful business all together.

I instantly fell in love with shooting all things real estate and knew that this was the career path I wanted to pursue.

In August of 2022 life hit me like a ton of bricks!! 2 car accidents, 3 hospitalizations, and a broken shoulder. As you know photographers constantly use their upper body so having a bad shoulder I had to step back from doing what I loved.
During this time I had a lot of reflections and talks with my mom about what my next steps should be.
My mom and I always planned and dreamed to work together and decided it was time to make those dreams a reality. We took a leap of faith together and I started working for my mom’s Branding Company Elevate Branding Agency.
From there the opportunities became
endless! I began working as hard as I possibly could to build my clientele while also building meaningful relationships. I can proudly say since November of 2022 I have worked full time doing what I love with the people I love!!

All this to say that if you have a passion or a dream it truly can become your reality if work hard enough and surround yourself with people who push to be your best!

   

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love this question! I am an introvert at heart haha but if I am in the mood to be out and about I love downtown Alpharetta!
First stop would have to be Valor Coffee for an iced vanilla latte! Then stop by 2B Whole Gluten Free Bakery for their cinnamon roll! I am allergic to dairy and don’t do a lot of gluten and that place has the best deserts!
After that we have to stop by Comeback Vinyl and head straight to the Ella Fitzgerald section or shop Spirited Boutiques and make our own jewelry!
For a good meal there is 2 places I would go to just depends on what i’m craving! If I am craving a good burger then it’s Butcher & Brew for their Double BB Burger and fries! If I am craving something healthy then it’s the Superica Ensalada De La Casa with steak!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This is a hard question just because there are so many people that deserve a shoutout.

I will start with my mom.
My mom is the reason why I am where I am today! She has always believed and supported my passions. It truly is a gift to work with someone who just wants the best for you. She pushes me to always do and be better and for that I am so appreciative!

My dad who has always supported my goals and dreams! He has been one of my constant supporters!

My step dad who has truly shown me the importance of positivity.

My 4 siblings Anden, Abryn, Adie, and Arlie my favorite kids in the world who have made being a big sister so amazing!

My boyfriend, Logan! Who is my biggest cheerleader and bigger hype man. Makes me feel like I can do anything!

My Nonie (Grandma) for being my crutch of wisdom! You have always helped me through my most difficult times!

My mentor in Photography Margaret Buell -D’Ambrosi the owner of Buell Productions! Thank you for taking a chance on me in high school and being a mentor through all things photography and videography!

My clients!! Thank you to all my clients for using me and allowing me to do what I love!

Of course God! Would not be here without his guidance!

Website: Coming Soon

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevate.brandingagency?igsh=MXJrdGJ0NHkzZ3Z4bA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ainsley.may.39?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
All photo credits Ainsley May with Elevate Branding Agency

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.