nO ONE CAN DO IT ALL ALONE
MEET THE TEAM
Ashley Benham
Boss Babe, Main Photographer
(she/her)
Yo yo yiggity yo, I’m Ashley! Let me say that however you found me over here on the neverending highway that is the internet, I am so flippin’ stoked that you’re here!
I’m guessing you’re here because you are engaged and searching for the perfect photographer to capture your ‘best day ever’— someone you can count on and trust. Yasss!! So let me just be real with you for a sec— ANYONE can be a photographer. Yep, you heard me right! I have a Bachelor’s Degree in photography that I earned from Columbia College in Chicago that I am SUPER proud of, and my background in art absolutely influences both my shooting and editing style. But there are lots of amazing photogs out there who are self taught. In fact, if you’re into that sort of thing I have some artists I recommend checking out! Let’s talk about that later, over a beer? Maybe with chips and cheese dip? I might be awkward at first but don’t you worry, one pint of Memphis Sands at Wiseacre Brewery here in Memphis and… well, I’ll still probably be a little awkward but at least we’ll be drinking. (And if beer isn’t your thing, coffee or cupcakes work too! I love supporting local as often as possible.)
But back to what I was saying… I truly believe that anyone can be a photographer, but not everyone can be a wedding photographer. It takes so much more than knowing how to take a picture. Tbh, weddings are a work of art! Your boho-inspired floral ceremony arch or modern industrial centerpieces? Your empire-waisted lace dress or perfectly tailored velvet suit jacket with coordinating bow tie? Your romantic, soft, fairytale reception space or wild, colorful disco dance party? All of it comes together to form a visual manifestation of you and your boo’s lives, love, and everything in between. Who better than an artist to help paint the picture??
A few quick deets about me:
I was born and raised here in Memphis, and no matter how much I complain about the heat and mosquitos, the 901 will always be home.
My two cats Lana and Lennon are my world, even when they refuse to listen to me (because let’s be real, CATS.)
Music is a HUGE part of my life. I’d be lost without it, and love going to shows and supporting local musicians.
Netflix should just stop asking “are you still there” when I’m watching Parks & Rec, Friends, and Schitt’s Creek… yes, I’m still here because they are the best shows ever.
I low-key cringe when doing these lists, but if we bond over song lyrics, swapping cat pics, or finding out that we’re both actually April from P&R then NO RAGRETS. (Oh yeah, I also love body art and have many tattoos, but I pinky-swear they’re all spelled correctly, ha!)
Ariel Taranski
Social Media & Marketing Queen
(she/her)
Ariel is an avid reader, part-time writer, and Marvel fangirl! She loves all animals, especially her two pups named Pippa + Finnegan. She has 4 tattoos (for now), all of them referencing major parts of her life. Her favorite bands are McFly and Marianas Trench, and you can always catch her with her creature comforts: a good RomCom, Disney movies, and gummy candy!
She’s been working in social media since 2015. She received her Bachelor’s in English - Creative Writing from the University of Memphis with a minor in Social Media Marketing, and she’s been lucky enough to work with many amazing companies!
Ariel was, indeed, named after the Little Mermaid, and she often feels the same curiosity, passion, and zest for life of her namesake.
Tate Thompson
Badass Extraordinaire, Associate Photographer
(they/them)
Born and raised in Memphis, Tate has always had a passion for photography and art. They got their first camera in eighth grade and haven’t put it down since! Tate has been with the ABP team for a year now, but they have been professionally shooting weddings since 2013.
After studying photography in college, Tate and their partner moved to Denver where they continued their photography career. Tate always wanted to live in the mountains and loves the outdoors and nature! They were sad to leave the stunning scenery of the mountains, but Memphis was calling them back.
In addition to wedding and landscape photography, Tate enjoys urban decay work. You can find them exploring abandoned houses or buildings when they’re not shooting weddings! They almost always bring their partner and two rescue pups along for every adventure. For self care time, Tate enjoys cross-stitching or embroidery, as well as cooking delicious meals that warm your soul.
Tate is gr88888!
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