Rancho Cordova, 530-391-9260, ashleyteasleyphotography.com

Describe your business. Did you find it, or did it find you?

I’m a wedding photographer for the greater Northern California area. As much as I would like to say I found photography, it really found me. When my oldest daughter was born, I bought a nicer camera (or so I thought at the time) and found myself carrying it around constantly, and the passion really started developing (pun not intended).

What was the first job you ever had, and what did you learn from the experience?

I was a waitress. It taught me that customer service—no matter what business you’re in—controls whether you have a lifelong client or a one-and-done visitor.

Why is your staff the best in the business?

Felice, one of my second shooters, is incredibly talented, gets the most artistic and outside-the-box pictures, and has such a fresh take on ordinary moments. Tyler is in training to be a second shooter. Right off the bat, he’s shown great potential and has the ability to blend into the room and capture amazing, genuine moments.

Where do you go when the going gets tough? 

Mexico (after my editing is done of course)!

What’s your biggest job perk?

I'm invited into my clients’ lives to capture and witness intimate and joyful moments.

What’s your favorite place to eat out locally?

Aloha Sushi.

And finally, customer service is…?

An attitude, not a department.