Turning "No" into a "Yes" as a creative with Ashley Chappell
What if every rejection was actually a step toward success? In this episode, photographer Ashley Chappell shares how she transformed self-doubt into confidence, built a thriving career without formal training, and learned to turn every “no” into a future “yes.” From landing a dream project with Disney to using personal work as a tool to attract top clients, Ashley reveals the strategies that helped her break into the industry. Whether you're an independent creative or working in-house, this conversation is packed with insights on persistence, self-growth, and the power of proactive creativity. Don't miss it!
Find Ashley's work she mentions in the episode here:
Washington Post
Hollywood Reporter
Top takeaways:
Takeaway 1: Breaking Into Photography Without a Traditional Path
Ashley Chappell’s journey into photography didn’t start with formal training—it began with a camera, a Skillshare class, and a passion for creating. By sharing her work on Instagram, she quickly turned a hobby into a career. Her story proves that persistence, self-education, and hands-on experience can be just as powerful as a fine arts degree.
Takeaway 2: The Power of Personal Projects in Attracting Clients
Instead of waiting for the perfect opportunity, Ashley takes control by creating the kind of work she wants to be hired for. Her personal projects not only showcase her vision but have also landed her jobs with major brands like Disney. When clients see themselves in her work, they’re more likely to reach out, making proactive creativity a key to success.
Takeaway 3: Turning Rejection Into Motivation
For Ashley, a “no” isn’t the end—it’s just a step toward a future “yes.” She takes feedback as a roadmap for improvement, refining her portfolio and skills to meet industry standards. This mindset shift has helped her go from unanswered emails to securing work with top publications and brands. Her advice? View every rejection as a chance to grow and come back stronger.
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