Meet Allie Book | Photographer

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

Hi Allie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I have always enjoyed taking pictures of my friends and family, and suddenly I found myself being the go-to photographer at events. I figured why not take things to the next level? I tried my hand at different types of shoots: headshots, maternity, newborn, milestones, etc…I’m still working out exactly what my “focus” is, but I’m enjoying every step of the way!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I graduated from the University of Georgia in 2010 with majors in Advertising and Psychology. I wanted a steady job, and I was lucky enough to find one at an online retailer called Sylvane. After a few years, I found myself managing a freelance photographer, whom I persistently peppered with questions while she shot our product catalog. She was so wonderful and gracious (hi, Camille!), and I picked up a lot watching her work. Over eleven years later, I’m still at Sylvane, and now I’m the one behind the camera.

A side business was not something I initially saw for myself. But as I gained more confidence behind the camera, I decided to try my hand at shooting subjects besides dehumidifiers and other air treatment appliances (as fun as that is!). So I offered to shoot headshots for my best friend, maternity photos, newborn photos for various friends, and more. They liked my work, and word started to get out. Now the majority of my business comes from word of mouth, friends of friends, that sort of thing. It’s all about building relationships!

The biggest struggle? Imposter syndrome. It’s real, y’all, and I wrestle constantly with it. I know deep, deep down that I’m a talented photographer. But I know more acutely that I have a lot to learn. So I try to constantly balance confidence and a willingness to learn.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
How fun! Let’s see…

My favorite restaurant is Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft, so we would definitely head there for some Thai street food eats. Preferably we would sit outside and take in the beautiful view of the city.

While we’re in the area, we would have to hit up the Botanical Gardens, especially during the wintertime to see their Holiday Lights.

Another restaurant we would visit is Guac y Margys, a hidden gem that’s growing in the city. Their original location is right on the Beltline, so we would probably take a walk afterwards to work off the margaritas and cauliflower tacos (so delicious).

I absolutely love downtown Roswell, so we would have to head up there for some shopping. If it’s summertime, we might try to be up there during Alive After Five for some nightlife (and home before 9pm, of course).

If we have time, we’ll head into Duluth for the best Korean BBQ at Iron Age. Oh, and we would need to take in a show at the Fox!

And of course, a trip to ATL isn’t complete without a visit to Buford Highway: Taqueria el Rey del Taco for more tacos, Canton House for dim sum, Pho Dai Loi 2 for the best pho in the city.

So basically we would eat a ton and and walk a little. Sounds like a great week to me!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Michael Fisher, has always been my biggest supporter. He was the one who pushed me to start doing photography as a side business, and he still encourages me to do more with my art (like charge more, ha!).

Also, I have to thank my employer, Sylvane, for allowing me the opportunity to build my photography skills. I work full-time for this online retailer, and it’s an incredible place to work. Over the years, I have worn many different hats at this organization, and one of them happens to be photographer. They have watched me blossom, and I’m grateful for all that I have learned and continue to learn here.

A final shout-out goes to my best friend, Haley Rice. She is an artist living her dream in New York City and one of the most talented creators I know. She is also my all-time favorite model and always willing to pose for me. I’m constantly inspired by her drive and creativity.

Website: https://www.alliejphotography.com

Instagram: @alliejphotographer

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllieJPhotography/