Ashton Goldsmith is a maternity, newborn and family photographer with a distinctive approach: capturing authentic, emotionally rich moments that reflect the true essence of family life. What began as a personal journey, documenting her own experience of motherhood, has grown into a deeply meaningful business rooted in connection, presence and story telling. With a focus on truth over perfection, Ashton creates timeless imagery that celebrates the raw beauty of real life – offering an experience that isn’t about stiff poses, forced smiles or perfectly behaved children, but real, raw, honest presence. Whether you’re soaking up the final weeks of pregnancy, navigating the wild rhythm of family life, or craving a moment to just be seen, Ashton will capture your story in a way that feels natural for the whole family. Here she talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the inspiration behind Ashton Jane Photography, the challenges she has overcome, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
Motherhood cracked me open in ways I never expected. It softened me, stretched me and showed me just how fleeting time really is.
After becoming a mum, connection with my children and everything around me became so important to me to stay present. I started taking photos of myself with them to make sure I wasn’t just the memory-maker but part of the memory too. That little spark became a fire.
I wanted to give other women what I craved – images that truly reflect the raw, beautiful mess of motherhood. Connection over perfection. Truth over poses. That’s where it all began.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
It started with a camera in my hand and my kids as my daily inspiration. I photographed them relentlessly. The cuddles, the chaos, the quiet.
I posted what I loved on Instagram and word began to spread. Slowly but surely, I started photographing friends, then friends of friends. There was no big launch – just small, intentional steps fuelled by a deep love for storytelling. I built this from the ground up, in between naps and night feeds, with my heart stitched into every session.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
My biggest breakthrough came when I stopped trying to photograph what I thought people wanted and instead leaned fully into my own vision, emotive, unposed storytelling that honours the connection between mother and child.
The moment I let go of trends and embraced my truth, everything changed. I started attracting the kind of clients who saw the world like I do – those who value feeling over perfection, and legacy over likes.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
It’s a daily dance, and I don’t always get it right. Some days I feel like I’m nailing it, and others I feel like I’m failing at both. But I’ve learnt to give myself grace and trust the rhythm of this season.
I work around my children, often late at night or during quiet pockets in the day. I involve them where I can, and when I’m with them, I try to be fully present. Boundaries have become essential, and so has reminding myself why I started this in the first place – for them.
