Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlyn Eisenga.
Hi Ashlyn, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I got into sports photography when I started playing volleyball. I was always so fascinated with sports photos and videos and how they captured every moment so perfectly. How it makes me feel and how it makes the audience feel. You capture history.
My first photo I took was at my high school. I had the smallest camera. I was so intimidated. Fast forward to college. I played volleyball at a small D1 school called CCSU. I upgraded my camera and starting taking pictures at any sporting event I could. (Still very intimidating by the way.) I then got the opportunity to work for the CCSU Men’s Lacrosse Team and ran their media pages, took photos and video during games, and started making graphics. I knew then that I wanted to work for a big university. The atmosphere is unmatched.
I soon graduated and got an internship with the San Jose Sharks. They helped expand my knowledge in the creative world. What am I doing now? Looking for my next move.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a very bumpy road to say the least. This is one of the most competitive fields to enter, in my opinion. Everyone is so good at what they do. I follow a lot of creatives on social media, and it’s inevitable to feel like you’re behind. I’m only 24, and I feel that to the max. Imposter syndrome comes creeping in and makes me wonder if I am even good enough to make it. I’ve had a lot of those days.
I struggle to give myself credit when credit is due. When I create something, I think I fail to see how good it actually is. I always say, “It could be better.” or “Why aren’t you working harder?” It’s difficult for me to rest, and I need to rest sometimes, but I guilt trip myself into working even more. I am currently trying to find my balance.
I know these challenges are part of the process. No rain, no flowers or whatever that quote is. As frustrating as it is, I am trying to be grateful and present in the process.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I guess I am known for my sports photography. I’d say I’m pretty good at the camera stuff. I am working on being more proficient in videography. I am most proud of myself for sticking with it, even when I felt intimidated, embarrassed, and pressured. I am proud of myself for starting and never giving up. I’m not quite sure what sets me apart yet, to be honest. I’m still trying to figure that part out. But I do know I’m a fighter, I’m passionate, and my work is mine and mine only. No one else can be me. Maybe that’s what sets us all apart.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Supporting creatives is easier than everyone thinks. All we want is for our work to be shared, whether it’s on your Instagram story or tagging us when you post something we’ve created for you. My Instagram page is @illustbyash (long story for the name), and my email is illustbyash@gmail.com. I have a website (illustbyash.com) where anyone can contact me or just to check out my work. Okay, so basically, my name comes from inspiration from sports illustrated, and the word ill meaning sick. So, illust = sick sports photos, byash = me. Just in case you were wondering. I made it when I was 16, and I’m never changing it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://illustbyash.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illustbyashh/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlyn-eisenga/
