Occupation: photographer Instagram: @ashleybatz Where were you born? I was born in Marin County and was fortunate to grow up in a very Italian family - my grandparents are both from Monte di Procida (small town outside of Naples), and I spent every day after school there and every day over the summer. In one sentence what is unique about your work? I hope to make real connections when I'm photographing and tell and underlying story of my own experience. Why do you do what you do? Susan Sontag said it best when she wrote, ‘To take a photograph is to participate in another person’s mortality, vulnerability, mutability. Precisely by slicing out this moment and freezing it, all photographs testify to time’s relentless melt.’ With each photo I take, with each shoot that I complete, I’ll have encountered more people and have been able to connect with them in the way that I connect with the world. Not only are they able to understand me better and see me in my most comfortable surroundings, I am able to know them. And honor them. I'm also wildly passionate about being creative, thinking about how a photo transcends out of our fingertips and into the world, and bringing delight with all whom I encounter. What inspires you? I cry every time I watch Chef's Table. I cried during the tech rehearsal when I was at the Super Bowl. I am so inspired by the people who work to make things and who offer a piece of themselves as they put everything they have into their creative process. Describe your personal style. I've decided I dress like a "hot tomboy," though I don't consider myself hot. I think it's my silly way of saying that I love sneakers, sweatshirts, ripped jeans, and anything that has an urban, athletic edge to it. Your ultimate must-have. Cool sneakers and sweatshirts. All day every day! What superpower would you have and why? Teleportation for sure. That way I could easily do photo work in all kinds of places! What is next for you? I'm currently working on some major portfolio pieces of which I'm extremely proud. I'm also constantly verbally and mentally manifesting my debut in Vanity Fair or Vogue one day...