Honoring Evin Thayer:
A Houston Photography Legacy

For more than 40 years, Evin Thayer was one of Houston’s most recognized and celebrated portrait photographers. During his remarkable career, he photographed tens of thousands of people—from generations of Houston families to some of the most notable figures of his time.

Evin’s work was known for its clean lines, simplicity, and versatility. But those who had the opportunity to know him understood that his legacy extended far beyond the portraits he created.

A Lifelong Love for Houston

As a third-generation Houstonian, Evin cared deeply about the city where he grew up and built his career. He believed everyone could contribute in some way to making the community a better place to live, and he put that belief into action throughout his life.

Evin served as photographer for the Houston Astros Calendar benefiting the Houston Humane Society. For 13 years, he photographed the Houston Firefighters Calendar, helping raise more than $1 million for the Children’s Burn and Cripple Fund.

He also contributed his time and talent to numerous Houston charities and nonprofit organizations, including AIDS Foundation Houston, The Animal Fund, Bering Community Service Foundation, Body Positive, Casa de Esperanza de los Niños, Citizens for Animal Protection, DIFFA, Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony, KUHF Public Radio, and the Spay-Neuter Assistance Program.

Giving back wasn’t simply part of Evin’s business. It was part of who he was.

Photographing Houston History

Many Houstonians recognize the name Evin Thayer through his portraits of prominent local and national figures. Over the course of his career, he photographed actors, athletes, scientists, politicians, artists, astronauts, and many of the people who helped shape Houston.

His notable clients included President George H.W. Bush, Senator Lloyd Bentsen, astronauts Gene Cernan, John Glenn, and Alan Bean, Walter Cronkite, Ben Love, Robert and Janice McNair, Hakeem Olajuwon, Mary Lou Retton, Kenny Rogers, Jaclyn Smith, Miss Universe Chelsi Smith, Tommy Tune, Lynn Wyatt, and Carolyn Farb.

While the familiar names may have attracted attention, Evin brought the same care and interest to every person who stood in front of his camera.

Evin was a True Connector

Clients often commented on Evin’s ability to put people at ease, and on how naturally children and pets gravitated toward him. He understood that creating a meaningful portrait began with making people feel comfortable, seen, and cared for.

He also valued the relationships that developed over years of photographing the same clients and their families.

As Evin once said, “One great thing about this business is to watch families grow and change.”

That connection with people became one of the defining qualities of Evin Thayer Studios.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

Allison Wilkins had the privilege of working closely with Evin during the final year of his life. In 2019, she took over Evin Thayer Studios with a deep respect for what he had built and the generations of Houston families who trusted his name.

In 2023, the studio officially became Allison Wilkins Photography. Although the name changed, the commitment behind it did not.

Evin’s legacy continues through the studio’s dedication to personal service, meaningful relationships, and beautifully crafted portrait artwork designed to last for generations. We remain honored to care for the history of Evin Thayer Studios while continuing to serve Houston families and professionals in a way that reflects both where the studio began and where it is going.

If you were a previous Evin Thayer client and have not met with Allison yet, please feel free to reach out and schedule a meeting. You can also call or text 713-524-0199.