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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
With over a decade behind the lens, I specialize in architectural and commercial photography that helps design professionals, developers, and commercial real estate teams present their work at the highest level.
My background began in real estate photography, where I photographed thousands of properties throughout Southern California. That experience sharpened my eye for composition, lighting control, and delivering consistent visual assets under tight timelines.
Over the years, my work has expanded beyond California, traveling to multiple states for commercial and architectural projects. Today, my focus is on capturing the design intent, scale, and atmosphere of built environments — creating imagery used for marketing campaigns, investor presentations, leasing materials, portfolio development, and brand storytelling.
I work with:
• Commercial developers
• Architects & design firms
• Hospitality brands
• Commercial/Residential real estate teams
• Interior Designers
Based in Southern California and available for regional and out-of-state assignments. If you're looking to elevate how your project is presented to the market, let's connect.
Overview
Hired 197 times
Serves Irvine, CA
Background checked
1 employee
12 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Credit card, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2018
2017
2016
Services offered
Type of building
Platform type
Drone
Desired output
Photos
Video clips
Full edited video
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Excellent 4.9
89 reviews
5
96%
4
0%
3
1%
2
1%
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2%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Brandon F.
Jun 9, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Darren was absolutely fantastic! He helped me execute a surprise engagement proposal flawlessly while also taking great drone video and photography. He even went the extra mile to hustle to multiple locations so he can capture the entire event. I can't recommend him enough
Details: A single site • Drone • I'm flexible • I'm flexible • As recommended by the professional
Aerial Photography
Adam B.
Apr 25, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
From the consultation to execution, Darren was amazing! I needed him to coordinate drone work with a boat captain and a best friend to pull off an amazing surprise proposal. He made everything seem less, stress free, and an amazing value! Then delivered a top notch edited product. I am trying to just create reasons now to hire him again! I can’t thank him enough and recommend to anyone for any photography project you have !
Details: A single site • Drone • Fully edited video • Digital or online download • As recommended by the professional
Aerial Photography
Matthew A.
Feb 4, 2017
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Hired on Thumbtack
Darren photographed a couple outside areas of a hotel in Corona, CA for me. He shot and delivered the images is a very timely manner and they turned out great. Overall, he was extremely professional and made doing business with him very simple and easy.
Architectural Photography
Mike .
Mar 2, 2017
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Hired on Thumbtack
Darren was amazing. I hired him to photograph our condo+loft for the MLS listing--and chose him specifically because of his experience photographing different types of architecture. He showed up on time (early, actually) and got right to work. I think our condo was a bit more work than he expected (lots of angles and windows), but instead of that being a negative, Darren turned it into a positive. He was very enthusiastic and really took his time setting up the right shots and lighting them appropriately. And he was overall just a pleasant, interesting person to chat with while he did his job. And he worked late into the night to get us our images back that evening. Our pictures turned out fabulous...truly stunning. We're expecting multiple offers. I would recommend Darren for any project--from an MLS listing like ours (particularly if you want your home to really stand out), to the other bigger projects he works on.
Real Estate and Architectural Photography
Karla D.
Aug 2, 2016
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Hired on Thumbtack
Darren did a great professional job. Took nice clear photos with great lightening and quality. Delivered them before the deadline. I would for sure use him again. The photos were exactly what I needed. Thank you again.
Commercial Photography
Credentials
Background Check
Darren Asay
FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I pride myself on high levels of customer service by demonstrating with each customer the same level of support. I make each client and potential client feel comfortable and relaxed at my photoshoots. I take time with my clients. I want them to know that they are not a number. I'm building relationships.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
Although I created Advanced Focus Photography out of a passion for photography, the passion that continues to drive me to this day is knowing I’m helping. I’m helping Realtors build their business and brand. I’m helping sellers get out of sticky situations. I’m helping sellers move on to their dream home. I’m helping homes get sold faster, and for a higher list price.
What types of customers have you worked with?
My clients are fantastic. I've been lucky to meet some of the nicest people. I work with homebuilders, Real Estate Agents, private home sellers, home staging companies, commercial investment companies...the list goes on. Again, it's about building relationships for me.
