From classroom to camera: Opal & Ash Photography lights up Main Street

Opal & Ash Photography owner Tori Gauze

BY DIANE SMITH
MOUNTAINCITIZEN

INEZ — Opal & Ash Photography, the latest gem on Main Street in Inez, unveiled its doors with an open house Friday. The event was to introduce Tori Gauze, owner and photographer, and showcase the studio’s array of services.

Opal & Ash, located behind the Dairy Drive-In at 210 E. Main Street, Rear Building, specializes in weddings, senior portraits, couples, families, engagements, special events, birthday celebrations, boudoirs, and personalized sessions that range from pets to business marketing.

Emphasizing her approach to boudoir sessions, Gauze mentioned, “When I do the boudoir sessions, I hope to bring out the playful side. I’ll talk with the client for a while to make sure she is comfortable and feels her privacy is secure before getting started. My plan is to show every single lady how beautiful they are – and can be – with these types of photos.”

Gauze’s remarkable journey as a professional photographer began during her work as an art teacher.

“I stumbled into photography. While teaching at Inez Elementary School, I was moved to Martin County High School as an art teacher,” said Gauze. “I had to take an art class to find out more about it, one being a John Micheal Photography class. Eventually, I started taking pictures of people and became fascinated with being able to capture more than just a photo.”

The allure of photography became undeniable for Gauze.

“There was something that gave me a feeling and vibe. I fell in love with the concept of photography and what it did for people,” she expressed.

On the topic of the intriguing name of her studio, Gauze revealed a personal touch.

“This will sound silly, but stay with me on this one. Opal is my cat’s name, and I just love her so much. Ash (short for Ashton) is my middle name. In a biblical sense, what we find or see in ourselves is what God finds the beauty in. As a photographer, I want to show you the beauty in you just as an opal, with all its colors, brings beauty from ashes,” she said.

Gauze’s passion for capturing the essence of her subjects promises a fresh perspective to photography in Inez.

With her work being featured in esteemed photography publications such as The Framed Photographer, Color That Magazine, Pretty Little Poser (from the U.K.), and The Photograp.her Magazine, Gauze has carved a niche for herself in the industry.

Opal & Ash Photography is open Monday and Thursday from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Appointments are exclusively by booking. Those interested in a session can contact Gauze for details on Opal & Ash Photography’s Facebook page, through Messenger or at (606) 369-6802. See pricing and more at opalandashphotography.mypixieset.com.

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