Through the Lens: Ashlynn Stearns’ Journey as a Photographer and Counselor at Barnesville Summer Camp

Ashlynn Stearns has always had a deep connection to the Barnesville School of Arts & Sciences. A former student who attended from 1st to 7th grade between 2008 and 2015, Ashlynn’s love for the school and its community never waned. After graduating cum laude this past May with a B.A. in Art and Archaeology from Hood College, with concentrations in Art History and Studio Arts (focusing on Photography) and a minor in Film Studies, she returned to Barnesville to serve as a summer camp counselor and photographer—a role that uniquely blends her skills and love for the arts.

A Lifelong Passion for Photography

Ashlynn’s journey with photography began at a very young age. “I have been taking photos ever since I could get my little hands on a camera,” she recalls. “I got my first one when I was 8 years old and took hundreds of pictures of my stuffed animals.” This early passion continued to grow, and although a scheduling conflict in high school initially led her to photography class by chance, it was there that she discovered her true calling. “Fortunately, I loved it, and the rest is history,” she says.

Balancing Roles: Counselor and Photographer

Managing the dual responsibilities of a counselor and photographer might seem daunting, but Ashlynn has mastered the art of balance. “I make sure to get the activities set up first, and then I take photos when I can,” she explains. Her ability to keep an eye on the campers while capturing their moments on camera allows her to fulfill both roles seamlessly. “It’s easy to keep an eye on them and take photos at the same time,” she adds.

Capturing the Camp’s Spirit

Ashlynn’s photography is not just about snapping pictures; it’s about telling a story. She has a keen eye for capturing the essence of what makes Barnesville Summer Camp so special. Her favorite moments to photograph include campers engrossed in art projects, candid shots of them focusing intently on their work, and the joyful scenes of children playing outside on the school’s expansive campus.

The Barnesville Summer Camp is distinctive in its approach to utilizing the entire school for activities. The campers have access to the gym, library, playgrounds, and swing set, with a strong emphasis on spending significant time outdoors. Ashlynn’s photos beautifully reflect this, showcasing the campers enjoying every corner of the 30-acre campus.

What makes Barnesville Summer Camp truly exceptional is the sense of community it fosters. Ashlynn shares a heartwarming story that exemplifies this spirit: “There were three kids who didn’t know each other at the start of camp. By the end of the summer, they were the best of friends, and now they attend Barnesville together.”

This sense of belonging and the friendships formed are what Ashlynn believes makes the camp so special. “It’s a fun place where you can meet so many new friends,” she says, encouraging others to experience the magic of Barnesville Summer Camp for themselves.

For Ashlynn, the Barnesville Summer Camp is more than just a summer job—it’s a return to her roots. Her journey from a Barnesville student to a counselor and photographer is a testament to the lasting impact the school has had on her life. Through her lens, Ashlynn captures not just the activities of the camp, but the joy, creativity, and connections that define the Barnesville experience.

Ashlynn’s photography is deeply personal and reflective of her artistic philosophy. “I take photographs of any and everything that catches my eye,” she says. “Something that captures my attention, even for a brief moment, has beauty and is worthy of being photographed.” This approach is evident in her work at the camp, where she not only documents the broader landscape but also dives deep into the details that bring the experience to life.

“During my travels, I take a landscape of a certain place and then venture deep to take detail shots within that larger landscape,” Ashlynn explains. “I do this to give the viewer a full experience of the place without having to actually be there.” Whether capturing the essence of a person through portraiture or the fleeting moments of a summer day, Ashlynn’s work is a reflection of her belief that “even in the mundane there is beauty.”

The Future Through Her Lens

As she looks to the future, Ashlynn’s time at Barnesville has only deepened her love for photography and solidified her desire to continue capturing meaningful moments. Her work at the camp is a celebration of the school’s unique environment, the friendships formed, and the memories made—one photo at a time.