Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Accomplishments
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Richard Dones

Pasadena,CA

Summary

Dynamic Photographer with a proven track record where I enhanced customer satisfaction and streamlined equipment handling. Expert in Adobe Photoshop and adept at fostering teamwork, my portfolio showcases a broad range of genres, from fashion to wildlife, underpinned by exceptional attention to detail and a creative approach that consistently exceeds client expectations.

Skilled imaging professional prepared to bring keen eye for detail and artistic vision to dynamic team. Proven track record of delivering compelling visual content across various media platforms. Reliable and adaptable team player, committed to collaboration and achieving project goals with precision. Expertise in photo editing, lighting, and composition.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience

Work History

Photographer

Self Employed Photographer
02.2012 - 01.2025
  • Digitally edited photos to enhance appearance.
  • Delivered high-quality images under tight deadlines, demonstrating strong time management skills.
  • Edited, toned, captioned, and uploaded photographs for publication.
  • Took photos from different angles and perspectives to capture perfect images.
  • Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients through clear communication and professionalism.
  • Captured stunning images by utilizing various lighting techniques and creative compositions.
  • Photographed high-quality images for various print and digital projects.
  • Scheduled and booked locations for photo shoots, working collaboratively with clients and contacts.
  • Provided exceptional customer service throughout the entire process from initial consultation to delivery of final products.
  • Collaborated with clients to understand their vision, ensuring the final product met or exceeded expectations.
  • Utilized natural and artificial lighting to capture desired images and maintain quality.
  • Optimized workflow efficiency by implementing photo editing software tools like Lightroom and Photoshop.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing deadlines and maintaining excellent organization.
  • Assisted clients in selecting poses, wardrobe and backgrounds to photograph different looks, concepts and locations.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction through exceptional editing skills, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Offered image proofs to help clients choose best photos from shoot.
  • Conducted pre-shoot consultations to discuss clients' needs and preferences for optimal results.
  • Continuously improved technical skills by staying updated on industry trends and new equipment.
  • Implemented backup strategies for photo shoots, ensuring no critical moments were missed due to equipment failure.
  • Maintained photography equipment, ensuring gear was in optimal condition for all shoots.
  • Cultivated diverse portfolio that showcased versatility across various photography genres, attracting broader client base.
  • Leveraged natural light to enhance mood and atmosphere of photographs, resulting in more dynamic and engaging images.
  • Tailored photography packages to meet unique needs of each client, resulting in high client satisfaction rates.
  • Selected and set up appropriate props, backdrops, and lighting.
  • Captured stunning images for variety of projects.
  • Utilized various types of camera equipment to capture best possible shots.
  • Monitored trends in photography to stay current in industry.
  • Shot photographs in controlled lab, field, and remote environments.
  • Facilitated printing of images for client's portfolio.

Photo Studio Manager

Studio 604/ Bruce Brown Photography
03.1997 - 10.2012
  • Handled customer inquiries professionally and efficiently, resolving issues promptly to maintain high levels of satisfaction.
  • Implemented a digital asset management system that streamlined workflow while maintaining security for sensitive content.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure favorable pricing on essential supplies and services.
  • Collaborated with photographers on artistic direction for projects, enhancing overall creativity and visual impact of final products.
  • Established clear objectives for each project by setting achievable goals based on scope requirements.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, creating an inviting atmosphere for clients and staff alike.
  • Increased studio revenue with effective marketing strategies and promotional campaigns.
  • Assisted in the planning and execution of special events such as workshops, gallery openings, and networking functions.

Rental Manager

Calumet Photographic
02.1996 - 12.1996
  • Provided staff training on proper equipment handling, maintenance, and safety procedures, reducing accidents and improving overall performance.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and knowledgeable assistance in equipment selection and usage.
  • Leveraged industry expertise to provide valuable insights during strategic planning sessions aimed at driving business growth.
  • Managed inventory control, ensuring optimal availability of rental equipment for customer needs.
  • Resolved customer issues promptly and professionally, leading to higher satisfaction ratings.

Assistant Photographer

Millers Outpost
01.1993 - 03.1995
  • Carried equipment from one shooting location to next.
  • Maintained a professional demeanor during high-pressure situations, ensuring smooth photoshoots.
  • Set up and broke down photography equipment efficiently during on-location shoots, saving valuable time.
  • Changed camera lenses and made small light adjustments.
  • Supported lead photographer in managing deadlines and project timelines, maintaining consistent workflow.
  • Assisted lead photographer in capturing high-quality images for various clients and events.
  • Produced visually compelling photographs through expert composition skills and attention to detail.
  • Reviewed images and selected best frames to present in client portfolio for purchase.
  • Collaborated with photographer and art director to assist with daily tasks.
  • Worked collaboratively with stylists, makeup artists, models, and other professionals on set to achieve desired results.
  • Managed scheduling and coordination of multiple photoshoots, maximizing productivity.
  • Selected and set up appropriate props, backdrops, and lighting.

Education

No Degree - Photography

Pasadena City College
Pasadena, CA

High School Diploma -

Pasadena High School
Pasadena, CA
06-1983

Skills

  • Photo editing
  • Adobe photoshop
  • Digital photography
  • Retouching and color correction
  • Advanced camera skills
  • Fashion photography
  • Adobe creative suite
  • Image editing expertise
  • Superb attention to detail
  • Photography equipment maintenance
  • Collaborative attitude
  • Strong compositional skills
  • Model direction
  • Shot composition
  • Post-processing proficiency
  • Equipment preparation
  • Food photography
  • Image archiving
  • Digital file creation
  • Wildlife photography
  • Darkroom film development
  • Lighting mastery
  • Lighting setup
  • Studio lighting techniques
  • Large format printing
  • Multi-format shooting
  • Lighting expert
  • Landscape photography
  • Flexible creative approach
  • Digital camera use
  • Photograph modification
  • Studio management
  • Product photography
  • Organizational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Photo shoots
  • Image editing
  • Excellent communication

Accomplishments

Self Published 2 Photo Books

Interests

  • Documenting and sharing travel experiences
  • Volunteering for community initiatives to give back to local communities and make a positive impact
  • Food Tourism
  • Cooking
  • Learning new cooking techniques and expanding my culinary skills
  • Food Photography
  • Sharing recipes, cooking tips, and culinary experiences through blogs and social media platforms
  • Growing herbs, vegetables, or fruits in home gardens
  • I enjoy cooking for friends and family gatherings
  • I like trying new recipes and food trends
  • Community Cleanup
  • Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
  • Fundraising Events
  • Volunteer Work
  • Photography
  • I have a passion for photography and editing photos

Timeline

Photographer

Self Employed Photographer
02.2012 - 01.2025

Photo Studio Manager

Studio 604/ Bruce Brown Photography
03.1997 - 10.2012

Rental Manager

Calumet Photographic
02.1996 - 12.1996

Assistant Photographer

Millers Outpost
01.1993 - 03.1995

No Degree - Photography

Pasadena City College

High School Diploma -

Pasadena High School
Richard Dones