When Ashley Fitz’s son Jynsen came to her asking if she’d capture a few pictures of him and his baby doll, she knew she had to pull out all the stops.
The Shelbyville, Indiana-based photographer employed her abilities as the proprietor of Ashley Mae Photography. Following the sweet outcomes’ Facebook share, the images rapidly went viral, demonstrating that dolls can make great pals for young boys as well.
“My husband is in the military and when he deploys I like to take our boys to Walmart to get them something special to brighten their day or make them feel a bit better,” Ashley said.
“Jynsen walked over to the doll aisle as we were looking at the “male toys. When he mentioned he wanted a baby doll, he indicated his new best friend Three, and he even picked out a pram and some bottles for her.”
Although Ashley isn’t sure where the name Three comes from, there’s no denying that Jynsen has a special bond with her. When Jynsen one day asked Ashley if she could set up a picture session, Ashley kicked into high gear.
“I wrapped Three up nice and tight in a stretchy wrap and gave Jynsen a bit of guidance during our session,” explained the mom of three.
Ashley added: “He is used to being in front of my lens and is quite the natural model, so this session was a bit typical, we just added his ‘baby’ into the mix.”
Ever since the photos series went viral, Ashley has gotten a ton of feedback that’s both kind and mean-spirited.
“While we are receiving an abundance of love from so many people from all over the world we have also received some negative comments and even messages about him playing with a doll — and a doll of a different race — but I always stand up for him and I always will,” said Ashley.
“I am teaching him to love no matter the color. I am teaching him to stand tall when you need to.”
While Ashley said that Jynsen loves riding his dirt bike and playing in the mud, she acknowledges her son has a soft side — and that’s a good thing.
“There is nothing wrong with him playing with a doll, and one day he will make a very caring and nurturing person — and maybe one day a dad if that is what he chooses to become, but I will leave that up to him,” she said.
“It was important for me to share it from my own perspective to show others that it’s OK to play with different types of toys. There are no genders in toys. Boys should be free to play with dolls and kitchen sets if they so choose, but girls should be free to play with trucks and get dirty. I detest how many people have preconceived notions of what is “normal.” Playing with a doll will only make my son more caring and affectionate.”
Three has received a little less attention now that Jynsen’s father has returned from his deployment. He will, however, always have these adorable pictures to treasure. Keep reading to get a look at this meaningful photo series.
