Hi, I am Ashley Degraaf.


I’ve been a family photographer for almost 8 years, but my experiences are diverse. They evolved over years of studying journalism and English literature and working as a reporter. I graduated from Vancouver Island University with a Bachelor of Arts, a major in Creative Writing/Journalism and minor in English. I worked for several years as a writer and photographer for local newspapers and magazines.


No matter what I’ve been up to, I have kept my camera close. I captured photos to run with feature articles.  I've documented my life raising my kids, Jack and Audrey, and for the last 8 years, I’ve dedicated myself to capturing family photos.


I live in Lake Cowichan and spend a lot of time outdoors, exploring with my family and enjoying the beauty around us.


Through my photography journey, I have fallen in love with family and children’s portraits and a particular editing style: bold colours, bokeh and dreamy, almost ethereal vibes. I have recently narrowed my photography focus on only shooting small family-related sessions. I no longer offer business portraits and branding sessions. I am happy to take on maternity sessions, however I will not be capturing newborn photos or large extended family sessions, as I don't have the space for indoor portraits and I prefer more casual sessions with smaller groups. (Thank you for your understanding).

Ashley Degraaf Photographer

Testimonials

“I just wanted to say thank you so very much for everything. You were so quick at editing and a pleasure to work with. We absolutely love how the photos turned out. Thank you for allowing us to have our dog Charlie in our photos too. It meant a lot and I know one day I will look back at the photos with the fondest memories. Our family and friends have given us (really, you) so many compliments too.”

—Chantal, Matt, River & Charlie

“Ashley is THE best! I have a hard time putting into words how grateful we are for the beautiful moments she has captured of our family over the years. She is talented, professional, and overall an absolute joy to work with. She goes above and beyond answering styling questions, choosing amazing locations, and putting our family at ease during the shoot. And, she always pulls through with timely editing. I 100% recommend Ashley!”

—The Symes Family

“Our family has been fortunate enough to have had Ashley take our photos for the last 5 years. She always comes up with interesting, different settings, and is great with my two young kids. She is a friendly, easy to be around person, and we are thankful to have gotten to know her over the years. Her photography skills are truly amazing, and her works have become such cherished, timeless memories for us as a family. I can't overstate how talented she is, and equally how nice of a person she is.”

—Erin + Mason


Follow me on Instagram


@ashleydegraaf.photographer