Meet Chris Allison | Real Estate Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Allison and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, how do you think about risk?
Being a risk-taker is definitely not something that comes naturally to me. I had the dream of starting a business for a really long time before I finally worked up the courage to take the plunge. For most of my life, I took the safer routes and feared the unknown, but over the last few years, I have pushed myself to grow and see what I’m truly capable of. I would love to take full credit and have everyone believe I am just a really courageous person, but I honestly could not have taken on this journey without the love and support of my friends and family. My wife has been amazing, and she has helped support me in so many different ways through the start of my career. Starting Engage took a lot of planning, and was definitely a risk, but because I was surrounded by people who believed in me and wanted to see me succeed, everything went a lot smoother than I ever imagined it could. I had so much fear before, about not being a good enough photographer, or simply not having what it would take to run a successful business, but after I started I knew I was doing exactly what I was always meant to do. Being willing to take risks has completely changed my life, and I am so much happier and fulfilled for having done so.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am really proud of the reputation I have built for myself in a fairly short period of time. My clients are such a great testament to that statement. I really don’t have to advertise or chase new work because I receive so many referrals from my existing clients, and my client retention is really high. My clients tell me all the time how much they love working with me, and that’s really what it’s all about for me.

Almost no one knows this, but my first attempt at becoming a real estate photographer was a big flop. Fresh out of college with nothing but a camera bought on a credit card I decided I wanted to try making a living at this and I gave it a solid try. I built a small portfolio, passed out flyers, and called real estate agents. A big problem was that no one knew me, and in the Real Estate world reputation is everything. After my first attempt, it took me 7 years of working for other people to build up a solid network and hone my skills. It certainly wasn’t easy, but by keeping my goals in mind, and by working on becoming better every day I have been able to grow so much.

I think I just want the world to know that I really love what I do, and I’m really excited to keep growing myself and the business. It is my goal for Engage to be one of the very best real estate photography companies out there.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My two favorite ways to spend my free time are eating really good food, and playing games. At the top of my food list in The Woodlands is Whiskey Cake. They have so many great appetizers and drinks. Every time I go I know it’s going to be good whether I’m trying something new, or sticking with one of my favorites. The atmosphere and service are also top-notch. Another favorite spot of mine is Deacon Baldies. DB is a great little food truck/bar spot with a fun family-friendly atmosphere, and it’s always a hit with my friends.

For games, I love going to The Adventure Begins to pick out a new board game to try, or hitting up Dave and Busters/Main Event/Incredible Pizza Company. There’s something about beating little kids at lazer tag that makes me feel alive (That’s sort of a joke).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people that have poured into me and given me opportunities that have led to me being where I am now, but hands down no one comes close to doing for me what my wife has done. She is there for me day in and day out. When I need someone to bounce ideas off of, she is there. When I have to work really long hours and need help with personal things, she is there. When it’s time to celebrate success, she’s there for that too! From the very beginning, she has been so supportive and encouraging. She is seriously super smart, and an asset to everyone around her.

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