From Behind the Camera

Hi everyone! Allison Paraiso here! I wanted to do a little introduction so here we go...

I currently reside in the East Bay with my Husband and our Daughter. I’m originally from LA (born and raised). I grew up studying dance and theatre which ultimately lead me to a professional career of teaching and performing. 

I've taught, performed, directed and have choreographed in California for many companies for over 20 years.

My photography journey began when I started working for a local (LA) photographer and one of my dear friends. We would take professional pictures for various dance studios. I would pose the dancers and she would take the pictures. After a few years I decided to pick up the camera and see what would happen.

Needless to say I fell in love. Not just capturing moments in time but also connecting with different people and showing their beauty.

I started my photography business in 2012, Images Imagined. Right as my business was thriving in LA I made the move to the Bay Area in 2017. Since then my business has taken a backseat to my career and personal life.

Since the start of the pandemic in 2020, 98% of career has came to a full stop. This was truly was devastating for many reasons. But there was a beautiful silver lining, I was about to bring my daughter into the world.

So much time off was a blessing and a curse. On one hand I had the time and space to nurture my pregnancy. But on the other hand I was no longer making art and making connections with my fellow artists. My heart was full but yet broken.

I always told myself that after I gave birth I’d do whatever I could to make art again. And well here I am! And Allison Paraiso Photography was born!

I specialize in dance, headshots, theatre and portrait photography.