Meet Bobby Donaby | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bobby Donaby and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bobby, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I first started photography I actually never did it in hopes or even with the thought of going full time. I did it because it was simply something I loved. Throughout college I was making some type of money to help me further my self into photography by just giving me the ability to buy new equipment. When I decided to make it a business, it was actually this year a few months ago. With the pandemic I realized more than ever that life was short. Live the life you want to live because you could die tomorrow. I asked myself if I die tomorrow would I be pleased? The answer…was ehh. With my life I have had a great life its been amazing I regret nothing, but I was being scared of pursuing something that I wanted to because it wasn’t the typical job thats available I didn’t go to school for but I would hate myself if I didn’t attempt it.

So this year I started moving with a business mind set and with God In my every step. Setting up goals and budgets and making everything work to the best of my ability I knew I didn’t want to rush the process to become Full time but I knew I wanted to set myself up so when the time was right wether it was earlier or later I would be ready.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a creative I want to be seen as a person that excels in all forms of his art medium. I want my story to speak to everybody wether its the rich or the poor, man and woman, and much more. What sets me apart is that in each of my pieces i’m unapologetically me. You will see a piece of me in every piece of work on my page wether its the tones in a models skin, or the hint of red somewhere, something will always reflect me and the way I feel.

The way that I got her professionally has not been hard but it hasn’t been easy. The people around me truly helped. Im still not where I want to be by any means but I am headed towards the right direction. As far as the world will now I want to be seen as a Professor, look at my brand and story and realize that even though he may not be seen as the greatest out of all of his pairs technicality wise, My work will speak with you the most. An art piece that speaks to you is always more prized than a work that is technically sound.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestfriend was visiting for the week and I wanted to make sure they had the best possible time ever I would take them to a few places. I would first take them to a spot where they can just simply hang out at. This would be anywhere in the Gulch area this way we can walk around, you have bird scooters, downtown, and a few bars to stop and have a drink at. A museum is also top priority. A good spot would be the National Museum of African American music. I am really big on music and just my African American culture. As a Black man we really don’t know where we come from unless we look at it and go into it. So any stop to learn a little more about are past can always help our present. Another spot I would go to is a popular spot called Willie B’s. This is an iconic spot its very new but the vibes are unbeatable and food is amazing. Other things would insist of shopping hanging with a few other people Im close with, and dealing with nature so hiking, fishing, going to the park, and more.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In my Shoutout I have to of course give all glory to God. Without his guidance I would be no where through constant prayer and conversation he helps me with every move I may take. Next is my Parents, my father and mother push me to be the best I can possibly due even though I know when I told them I was going full time photography, they probably questioned it they knew it was something that I wanted and that I am good at it so they support me 100% of the way. Next is my family and friends, They support me and keep me on my game when I slip up.

I also need to Shout my self out. We never give are selfs recognition but Ive wanted to quit so many times and I always show my self why thats not an option. Without my hunger and my dedication I wouldn’t where I am. I’ve been in so many spaces that I would never have imagined.

Website: bobbydonaby.com

Instagram: @bobby.suave

Twitter: @BobbySuave_

Facebook: Bobby Donaby