Hailing from Shelbyville, Indiana, the talented photographer Ashley Mae, who also owns Ashley Mae Photography, skillfully showcases her expertise. Her heartwarming images, featuring young boys enjoying their time with dolls, gained significant attention after going viral on Facebook. The photos serve as a beautiful reminder that dolls can indeed be wonderful playmates for children of all genders.
Ashley said, “My husband is in the military, so when he is deployed, I like to take our kids to Walmart to buy them something special to brighten their day or make them feel better.”
Although Ashley is unsure of the origin of the name Three, she has no doubt that Jynsen shares a special connection with her. When Jynsen asked Ashley if they could arrange a photo session, Ashley sprang into action.
Although Ashley is unsure of the origin of the name Three, she has no doubt that Jynsen shares a special connection with her. When Jynsen asked Ashley if they could arrange a photo session, Ashley sprang into action.
The mother of three explained, “I wrapped Three in a stretchy wrap and gave Jynsen instructions during our session.”
Ashley agrees, “He’s used to being in front of my camera and is a natural model, so this session was pretty typical; we just added his ‘baby’ into the mix.”
Since the photo series went viral, Ashley has received a mix of positive and negative comments.
Ashley declared, “While we’ve received a lot of love from so many people around the world, we’ve also received some negative comments and even messages about him playing with a doll, and a doll of a different race, but I will always stand up for him.”
“I am teaching him to love regardless of race. I am instructing him to stand tall when necessary.”
While Jynsen enjoys riding his motocross bike and playing in the mud, his mother Ashley recognizes that he has a softer side, which is a positive trait.
She said, “There’s nothing wrong with him playing with a doll, and he will grow up to be a very caring and affectionate person, and possibly a father if he so desires, but I’ll leave that decision in his hands.”
“It was essential for me to share my perspective to show that it’s acceptable to play with a variety of toys. Toys have no gender distinctions. If they wish, boys should be able to play with dolls and kitchen sets, while girls should be allowed to play with trucks and tools. I abhor how many people have preconceived notions of what is ‘normal.’ My son will become more compassionate and loving as a result of playing with dolls.”
Jynsen’s father has returned from deployment, and Three has received slightly less attention. However, Ashley always cherishes these heartwarming photographs. Keep reading to see this meaningful photo series.
