Today we’d like to introduce you to Don Tomino.
Hi Don, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started 35 years ago, when I decided that I wanted to be a professional photographer, but I had no idea how to get started. The photographer who photographed my brother’s wedding told me about an organization called triangle professional photographers Association. It was made up of photographers from Pennsylvania Ohio and West virginia. This was great information for me, and I quickly joined the organization. It was a triangle that I got the first Big Break of my photographic career. I had the Good Fortune to meet a man by the name of Sam Pelaia. Sam was the director of the triangle organization. I found out later that Sam was somewhat of a legend in Beaver county. He was also a certified Master Craftsman which is the highest level attainable in professional photography and very rare to achieve. I was very impressed and more than a little bit in all of him. It was like meeting a Jedi Knight.
Sam took me under his wing, and I drove 2 hours a day to his Studio to learn my craft. After 2 years working as Sam’s assistant, I was ready to leave the nest and start my own business. I bought a building located in the South Hills and remodeled it into my dream Studio, photographing High School seniors, weddings, family portraits, children and even pets. I am also proud to say that thanks in part to Sam’s teachings I have also acquired the title of certified Master Craftsman.
Life was good but it was about to get better. About 2 years later I got another big break when I met the girl that would be my future wife. She grew up in Beaver County and had her High School senior pictures taken by legendary Sam Pelaia. Four years later we were married and Sam was my best man.
In the coming years I would win many awards entering photography competitions, and also served as an instructor on a state Tri-State and National level.
I’m sure you have heard the expression, ” if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life”. I have been a professional photographer for 35 years and I can honestly say, I have never worked a day in my life. I feel so fortunate to be part of a profession where people are always celebrating and happy and for me to be able to preserve some of the most special days of their lives. That is what I love most about my job.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Getting started in any business is always the most difficult part. My first year in photography was a good one. And they got progressively better with each year.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in people photography. Photographing High School seniors, weddings, family portraits and even pets.
The things that I’m most proud of would be achieving my master’s degree, Craftsman’s degree and my certification in professional photography. I also scored a perfect 100 in our state wedding album competition
What matters most to you?
That my family is happy, healthy and well provided for.
In photography it matters to me that my customers are 100% satisfied with the things that I do for them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Dontominophotography.com
- Other: 412-849-0083
