PHOTOGRAPHER | Unabridged Photography - Ashley Houghton

Ashley Houghton from Unabridged Photography is based in both Chicago and NYC and is available to travel globally. With a film forward approach, she loves experimenting with a mix of film and digital cameras. Unabridged Photography's style blends documentary storytelling and loose editorial photography.

Tell us about your business!

I am a film forward photographer with a background in Fine Arts and Academia. My experience as a professor of Printmaking and Art History informs the intentional, curated way I document weddings. I approach each celebration with a deep sensitivity to personal history, composition, and narrative.

I love experimenting with a mix of film and digital cameras, ranging from professional SLRs to toy and even intentionally broken cameras. This approach allows me to create imagery that feels textured, tactile, and most of all, emotionally resonant.

My intention at every wedding is not only to tell the story of the day, but to capture the essence of its unique energy and space. I am drawn to the quiet in between moments, the subtle gestures, and the atmosphere that makes each gathering its own.

With home bases in both Chicago and New York City, I love documenting meaningful moments in the two cities that have shaped me creatively and personally.

Where are you based?

Chicago and NYC.

How would you describe your style?

My style blends documentary storytelling and loose editorial photography. I love to document raw moments as they unfold and I lean into refined editorial portraits when the moment calls for it.

What is your most memorable career moment?

My most memorable career moment was the first time I received a roll of film back from the lab. As the scans loaded onto my computer, I immediately noticed the nostalgic, timeless quality of the images. There was a depth and softness that felt alive. At that moment, I knew that if I was going to photograph weddings, I would do it on film.

What inspires you?

The quiet moments. The steam swirling up from my cup of coffee, the warm light through my windows, the sound of the train going by late at night and early in the morning. I tune into these little moments on each wedding day so that people can revisit them time and time again.

How would you describe your working style?

Calm, cool, and collected. I put a lot of energy into getting to know my couples so that on their wedding day, I can show up as a friend and collaborator. I prioritize presence of mind and handle logistics ahead of time so that when the day arrives, we can live in the moment.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?

Yes, since every wedding is unique, I start with a base package and offer add-ons that I tailor to each day.

Where would you love to travel to for work?

London, England; Cape Town, South Africa; Donostia/San Sebastián, Spain; Tokyo, Japan; Korčula, Croatia; and Connemara, Ireland.

Travel is a huge passion of mine, and my list is inspired by trips I’ve taken with my fiancée, friends and family.

Who is your dream client?

My dream clients value intentionality and presence. They are most excited about the small, meaningful moments they will share with each other, their friends, and their families on their wedding day. They value art and embrace the vulnerability of being photographed. They trust me to represent them as their truest selves.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

Keep it simple. Let go and be in the moment. The most joyful weddings are the ones where everyone is fully present, laughing, connecting, and celebrating love.

Unabridged Photography - Ashley Houghton

Website: unabridgedphoto.com

Instagram: @unabridged.photo