The Unique Artistry of Motorcycle Photography

Ashley Rand with her motorcycle. (Courtesy of Through the Pines Photography)

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

“I have loved photographing motorcycles since high school, when I first started riding. I became obsessed with the freedom motorcycles offered and the sense of calm that came with every ride. Driving the roads of New England, you pass some of the most majestic views, and I love living here. But it’s much more than that to someone who rides a motorcycle. It’s the open road, turns and twists along a river through the mountains, the wind blowing in your hair, and the warm sunshine on your face,” explains Lakes Region photographer Ashley Rand.

As the owner of Through the Pines Photography, located in Moultonborough, Rand has always loved photography and she’s been at it for years, honing her skills and offering all kinds of work from family portraits to events and other subject matter.

Rand says, “I have been immersed in photography for as long as I can remember; one of my favorite toys when I was growing up was a bubble camera. Capturing moments for my friends has always been a joyful part of my life, and I’ve been photographing professionally since 2009.”

But one particular thing: photographing motorcycles, is Rand’s all-time favorite pursuit. It isn’t something just anyone can comprehend, but Rand explains it like this, “For myself and other motor enthusiasts, riding a motorcycle is when we feel most relaxed and alive. As a photographer, having the ability to capture that is truly priceless.”

As a long-time Lakes Regioner, Rand has experienced Laconia Motorcycle Week each June for her entire life, and she isn’t shy about being at Weirs Beach, among the bike action. She recalls, “I had the privilege of photographing during Bike Week at the Weirs, which was an unforgettable experience that kicked off just a day after my wedding, turning it into a unique honeymoon. I set up a booth with a model (at what was Thurston's Marina at the time, now North Water Marine) and maintained that setup for two years. While starting a family has brought new priorities, I am confident that I will return to this event someday. During my time at Bike Week, I met inspiring riders and witnessed remarkable bikes that further fueled my passion. I've also had multiple photos published in Laconia Harley-Davidson’s calendar.”

Working all over the Lakes Region and beyond, Rand seeks out unique and beautiful locations for photographing motorcycles, much as a photographer would do for any sort of photo shoot. The only difference is that instead of focusing on people, the models are shiny, beautiful motorcycles.

Rand says she finds the White Mountains of New Hampshire particularly inspiring with great areas for her special kind of photography. “My favorite locations for photographing motorcycles are breathtaking scenic vistas framed by majestic mountains. Highlights include the outlook in Intervale and the stunning viewpoints along Crawford and Pinkham Notch. These spots provide the perfect backdrop, enhancing the beauty of both the bike and the ride.”

Creative and unique motorcycle photo by Ashley Rand/Through the Pines Photography.

In her work, Rand often bumps elbows with motorcycle riders and fellow fans of the hobby of bike riding, and she is open to all, versus shying away from some riders. When asked if it is the motorcycles or the riders that fascinate her as a photographer, Rand explains, “It’s both—the profound relationship between the rider and the bike. Each motorcycle is chosen for the thrill of speed, the road or dirt traveled, luxury, sound, or even color. The adventures that follow are extraordinary. It's about the connections, friendships, and brotherhoods that can transform lives. These motorcycles not only help riders overcome tough times but also bring them a sense of true happiness found only in the journey. When you include endless possibilities to be creative, it's always a thrill for me.”

Over time, Rand has photographed many things and comments, “I have photographed a wide array of subjects, but now I focus on what truly ignites my passion. I specialize in capturing families, engagements, proposals, small ceremonies, and, of course, motorcycles—each of these areas allows me to showcase the joy and beauty of life’s most special moments.”

Her true passion above all else is motorcycle photography, and she explains, “I photograph motorcycles a few times a year, and it fuels my passion for creativity. My photography journey has taken me through weddings and family moments for over a decade, but I’ve chosen to step back from the wedding scene to reignite my love for motorcycles. It’s a powerful reminder that following your true passion leads to fulfillment! I don’t have a particular type of motorcycle I prefer to photograph; each one is unique and special in its own way to its rider. Whether it’s sporty or built for comfort, what truly matters is the love of the ride.”

For someone who is such a fan of motorcycles, one would assume that Rand is a bike owner. “I started out riding a 2004 Suzuki GSXR 600, and my grandfather played a big role in helping me raise the money for it, recognizing my passion for having my own motorcycle. Although I regret selling it, as a young rider I was eager to travel. My husband has a strong love for Harleys and has built custom trike motorcycles with his dad. I then bought an 883 Iron, which I cherished for new reasons. After that, I owned a Yamaha MT07, which became my favorite. While I don’t currently have a motorcycle, new models come out every day, and I can never go too long without owning another.”

Rand has a solid background and training as a photographer, explaining, “I grew up in Wolfeboro/Tuftonboro. After graduation, I studied art at Plymouth State University for a year, uncertain about my career path. But after taking a couple of photography classes, my passion became clear: I wanted to capture the beauty of everything around me.

“Although photography wasn’t available as a major or minor, I took a leap and applied to photography colleges. I ultimately chose Hallmark Institute of Photography, an intense 10-month program that brought together photographers from around the world. United by our diverse visions, we shared the exhilarating journey of capturing what was inspiring to us. I stood out as the only student with a true passion for motorcycles, and my end-of-year portfolio showcased everything related to this passion. I have been pursuing this vision and more since graduating in 2009, I live with my family in Moultonborough.”

Most people have had their portrait taken or have snapped scenes with a camera while on vacation, but few think of photographing motorcycles. Why would anyone want a photograph of their motorcycle?

“When you reminisce about a motorcycle you once owned, it evokes cherished adventures and memories. Ultimately, that's what matters most: the photographs and the memories we share with those we love. My passion is to capture fine photographs that others can deeply enjoy. Witnessing how much people treasure their photos brings me immense joy. No matter what the subject might be, I invest my heart into every session, treating each one as if I were photographing my own family or friends. It’s no surprise that many of my clients become lifelong friends.”

As with any artist, change is inevitable and necessary to keep growing creatively. At this point in her career and personal life, change is definitely in the air for Rand. “I am currently focusing on what truly inspires me while diligently expanding my portfolio. My husband is on an exciting new journey as a business owner, and his unwavering support for my dreams inspires me to fully support him during this significant change.

“I’m refining my photography business to specialize in capturing the intimate moments of families, the joy of engagements, the excitement of proposals, the beauty of small ceremonies, and, of course, my favorite, the thrill of motorcycles. Through this period, I know I will enhance my skills and artistry. In the near future, I envision myself capturing the breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating experiences of long-distance motorcycle trips across the country, documenting it for other riders. I thrive on the excitement of travel, the joy of forming new connections and immersing myself in capturing that raw passion. This has long been my dream, and I am wholeheartedly committed to bringing it to life.”

For information on Through the Pines Photography, visit www.throughthepinesphotography.com or call 603-455-2794.