Meet Ashley H. Zhong | Photographer | Realtor | Loan Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley H. Zhong and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley H., how do you think about risk?
Risk has been a constant companion throughout my life and career, shaping my approach to challenges and opportunities. From a young age, I embraced risk-taking through artistic pursuits, whether it was competing in national dance competitions or showcasing my paintings on a public stage. These experiences taught me the value of courage and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Coming to the United States alone with just two suitcases was a pivotal risk in itself. It meant leaving behind the comfort of family and familiar surroundings, driven by the hope instilled by my tenacious Asian parents, who always held high expectations for my achievements. Living in a new country without the support of my family demanded careful decision-making and an acute awareness of the risks I was taking.

In my career, particularly in real estate and celebrity portrait photography, risk-taking has been integral. Whether navigating complex real estate transactions or capturing the essence of high-profile individuals through photography, each decision involves calculated risks. My ability to assess risks and make informed choices has not only enabled me to overcome challenges but also to seize opportunities for growth and innovation.

Ultimately, embracing risk has been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional journey. It has taught me resilience, strengthened my decision-making abilities, and fueled my drive to constantly push boundaries.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What are you most proud of or excited about?

I am most proud of my dual career in real estate and celebrity portrait photography. Achieving success in both fields has been profoundly rewarding, allowing me to seamlessly blend my passions for business and art. I am excited about the ongoing growth of my brand and the potential to make significant impacts in both industries.

How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?

My journey to professional success has been anything but easy. As a first-generation immigrant from China, I moved to California in pursuit of higher education, a significant risk in and of itself. Navigating life in a new country without familial support required acute decision-making and an awareness of both opportunities and challenges that I would need to inevitably face and overcome successfully to survive here.

I obtained an M.S. in Finance from the University of La Verne, a B.A. in Political Science with a concentration in taxation from the University of California, Riverside, and an A.A. in Business Administration from Pasadena City College. These academic achievements have provided a solid foundation for my careers in real estate and celebrity portrait photography.

Overcoming challenges involved embracing risk, maintaining an unwavering work ethic, and committing to continuous learning. My ability to evaluate risks and make informed decisions has enabled me to navigate obstacles and seize opportunities for growth and innovation.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?

Several key lessons have emerged throughout my journey:

Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all interactions fosters trust and credibility.
Continuous Learning: Staying informed about the latest trends and technologies is crucial for sustained success.
Embracing Diversity: Being open to different backgrounds and cultural influences enriches both personal and professional experiences.
Collaboration: Partnering with others can expand horizons and refine approaches, leading to greater success.
Resilience: Facing and overcoming challenges strengthens decision-making abilities and fuels the drive to push boundaries.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

Nothing is easy to build. Everything is set on a foundation of integrity, creativity, and dedication. As a Realtor, I am committed to providing exceptional customer service and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every client receives personalized support through complex transactions. As a celebrity portrait photographer, I strive to capture the essence of my subjects with creativity and precision.

My journey from China to California, driven by a passion for continuous learning and a strong work ethic, has been pivotal in shaping who I am today. I take pride in my accomplishments and look forward to the future as I continue to blend my passions and expertise to make a positive impact in both the real estate and photography industries.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Art and Culture
– Morning: Start the day at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Explore the contemporary art exhibits and enjoy the iconic “Urban Light” installation.
– Afternoon: Continue with a hike to the Hollywood Sign. The trail offers incredible views of the city and the iconic sign.
– Evening: Enjoy dinner at 71Above in Downtown Los Angeles, where you can take in panoramic views of the city while savoring exquisite cuisine.

Day 2: Nature and History
– Morning: Spend a relaxing day at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. Wander through the beautiful gardens and explore the extensive library and art collections.
– Afternoon: Continue your visit at the Huntington, perhaps with a leisurely lunch at the Rose Garden for high-tea.
– Evening: Spend the evening exploring the historic district of Old Pasadena. Visit unique shops and enjoy a leisurely dinner at Perle, a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant.

Day 3: Adventure and Scenic Views
– Morning: Head to the Getty Villa in Malibu. Stroll through the stunning gardens and marvel at the classical antiquities.
– Afternoon: Drive along to Malibu for an afternoon of horseback riding. Enjoy the scenic trails and the coastal views.
– Evening: Dine at a charming restaurant in Malibu, such as Nobu Malibu, known for its stunning ocean views and world-renowned cuisine.

Day 4: Coastal Adventures
– Morning: Return to Santa Monica and enjoy a morning at the beach. Relax on the sand or take a surfing lesson.
– Afternoon: Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at various viewpoints and beaches. Visit the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy fresh seafood at The Penthouse.
– Evening: Head back to West LA for a dinner at Vespertine, with its world-renowned cuisine.

Day 5: Winter Sports and Relaxation
– Morning: Head to Big Bear Lake for a day of snowboarding. The mountain offers excellent slopes for all skill levels.
– Afternoon: Continue snowboarding or take a break to explore the quaint village of Big Bear.
– Evening: Warm up with a cozy dinner at one of Big Bear’s local eateries, such as the Peppercorn Grille.

Day 6: Desert Oasis
– Morning: Travel to Palm Springs for a day of relaxation and fun. Start with a visit to the natural hot springs.
– Afternoon: Enjoy a round of golf at one of Palm Springs’ beautiful courses, like the Indian Canyons Golf Resort.
– Evening: Have dinner at Spencer’s Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and delicious menu.

Day 7: Rewind
– Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day. Enjoy a rejuvenating facial and other spa treatments at a top-rated spa in Beverly Hills.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Rodeo Realty Beverly Hills who helped me shape my real estate career and Vito Glazers of Glazers Media who has shared his network of high-profile individuals and trusted me to capture their essence on camera.

Website: https://ashleyzhong.rodeore.com/

Instagram: http;//www.instagram.com/ashleyhzhong

Image Credits
Red carpet photo by Aphotothatfitz; rest of photos are by myself