Hi there…
Rachael Ashley
Hello, and welcome. I’m Rachael; a freelance creative photographer drawn to sensual, authentic, and fantastical storytelling. My work lives in the in-between: unseen moments, quiet gestures, and layered identities. I’m a mum, a spontaneous dancer, a deep thinker, a writer, an artist, and a self-confessed film buff. A creative jack-of-all-trades, always observing, always collecting fragments of the world around me.
In the beginning of my photography journey I was entirely self taught, through experiences and determination in 2025 I graduated from the University of Derby with an MA in Photography, earning a distinction, where I developed my current project Double, Double. The series explores symbolism, feminism, and transformation, reimagining the witch as a figure of feminine power and resistance. Collaborating with an all-female coven, I use double exposures and black-and-white abstraction to blur the line between body, landscape, and myth, creating images that feel layered, fluid, and quietly powerful.
Based in Derby, I have a tendency towards creative portraiture with a dark, fantastical edge, exploring mood, emotion, and storytelling through every frame. When I’m not in the studio, I have a preference towards nature and natural light where possible, establishing a relaxed connection with my subject.
Alongside my personal practice, I work with Snap and Chat Connect, a community photography project fostering creativity, confidence, and connection. Guiding sessions and walks around the city, I help participants explore photography in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment in order to promote good mental health and wellbeing.
I am happy to collaborate and educate so if my work resonates with you — intimate, symbolic, and a little untamed, come say hi.
Rachael x
Kind words about how I work;
“Rachael made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked into her studio...I am so impressed with Rachael's work I will be using the photos for years to come!”
-Archie
“If you are looking for a photographer who is hard working, has attention to detail, goes above and beyond to capture the perfect shot...then speak to Rachael”
-Gemma
“I never thought I could look so good but Rachael worked her magic! ...she gave me so much confidence and made me feel so comfortable”
-Tom
Street Portraiture Project
