Life & Work with Anna Garrison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Garrison. 

Hi Anna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
The number one question I get asked by new clients is “how did you get started in real estate photography?” And they are always surprised at the answer…I got divorced. Photography had been a hobby for many years but had never really thought about it as a career. At the time of my divorce, I was a stay-at-home mom. We were a military family and I had spent 23 years supporting my spouse, taking jobs here and there as they were available, and if we were staying in that location long enough. I saw this major life change as an opportunity to finally do what I wanted to do, to let the real Anna shine. I am a self-taught photographer, but I didn’t let that stop me. I took a leap of faith and looked for work in the photography field. Within a few months, I began freelancing as a real estate photographer with a local marketing firm. After a few years, I decided it was time for me to start my own business, a business that represented me and my vision. I’ve created a style that is distinctly me. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I had no idea how to run a business or how to find clients. I’m quite shy and the thought of cold-calling realtors was daunting. Building a clientele from scratch, especially with limited experience, was quite tough. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My specialty is real estate photography; however, my clientele includes architects, commercial construction firms, interior designers, stagers, and small businesses, just to name a few. My realtor clients tell me I have a look, that they can always tell the homes I’ve photographed. Not sure what it is about the photos that makes me stand out. What you see online is what you will see when you visit the homes, as I take great effort in being authentic. My photos not only speak for me, but they represent my client as well. What sets me apart? I tell a story with my photos. Not only am I photographing the home, I’m capturing its spirit, its story. And I present the photos in such a way that potential buyers can envision themselves living there…family dinners in the dining room, baking cookies in the kitchen, movie marathons on the couch, bedtime stories, and family fun in the backyard. And despite the condition of the home or the price point, every home receives the same level of respect and quality of service. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
After coming back to Columbia after being away for 20+ years, I was excited to see the positive changes that had occurred…the revitalization throughout the city and the pride that was lacking. I enjoy seeing old buildings being transformed into new spaces while still keeping the character intact. 

There are so many vacant and abandoned buildings throughout our city. Instead of clearing land and building new, I wish there were systems in place that required builders to use existing structures first. At this time, housing is at a premium, and these old structures would be perfect for new homes. So much of the character and history of our city is being lost, which is unfortunate. 

Contact Info:

• Email: anna@annagarrison.com
• Website: www.annagarrison.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/annagarrison_photographer
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/annagarrisonphotos
• Other: www.instagram.com/theannagarrison

Image Credits
Kimazing Photography
Anna Garrison
Property Photographer