When Inspiration Meets Opportunity: A Test Shoot with Ashtyn

Some shoots come together because of a client brief. Others come together because of a spark of inspiration you just can’t ignore. This one was definitely the latter.

When I first heard the news that IN-N-OUT was officially making its move to Tennessee, my mind immediately started spinning. As someone who loves storytelling through visuals, the idea of blending an iconic West Coast brand with Southern surroundings felt like the perfect creative contrast. I knew I wanted to build a test shoot around that concept—something bold, playful, and unapologetically fun.

That’s where Ashtyn came in.

Working with Ashtyn was an absolute blast. From the jump, she brought confidence, energy, and a willingness to lean into the concept fully. Test shoots live and die by collaboration, and she understood the vision instantly. Whether she was rolling up with skates and a boombox or locking into a pose that felt effortlessly authentic, she elevated every frame. Shoots like this remind me how powerful it is when a model trusts the process and brings their own personality into the work.

Building the Shot

A shoot like this doesn’t just happen on accident. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes—location scouting, wardrobe planning, visual references, and figuring out how to tell a story in a single frame. I wanted these images to feel nostalgic but modern, editorial but approachable. The locations were chosen carefully to echo that “new territory” feeling, pairing clean architecture and recognizable signage with movement, attitude, and color.

We kept things loose but intentional. I’m a big believer in letting moments happen naturally once the foundation is set. That’s where the magic lives—in between the planned shots, when the subject relaxes and the scene starts to breathe.

Why I Love Test Shoots

Test shoots like this are a reminder of why I picked up a camera in the first place. They’re about exploration, collaboration, and pushing creative boundaries without limits. They sharpen my eye, fuel new ideas, and often turn into work that speaks louder than any pitch ever could.

Let’s Create Something Together

If this shoot resonates with you—whether you’re a High School Senior, a brand, a creative, or someone who simply needs strong visuals—I’d love to connect. From concept development to final delivery, I approach every project with intention, creativity, and respect for the story you’re trying to tell.

If you’ve got an idea, a vision, or even just a question about what’s possible, reach out. Let’s make something meaningful together.

— Reko