Tony Donaldson
Santa Monica, CA ***** 818-***-**** **************@*****.*** Portfolio/LinkedIn
Photographer, Producer & Editor
Content Creation – Photojournalism – Problem Solving
World-renowned, results-driven Photographer, Producer & Editor leverages subject matter expertise to deliver world class content for elite international brands. Maintains edge in highly competitive industry by capturing powerful moments, crafting compelling narratives, and fostering exceptional reputations. Passionate learner that continuously masters new technologies, explores new techniques, and remains at the cutting-edge of emerging trends. Able to work remotely and travel 50% - 75%.
Key Competencies & Skills
Photo Editing & Retouching • Commercial, Product, Sports, Digital & Event Photography • Video Editing & Production • Lighting • Writing & Reporting • Presentations • Marketing, Advertising & Promotion • Attention to Detail • Time, Budget & Priority Management • Logistics • Organization • Cinematography • Leadership • Relationship, Vendor & Stakeholder Management • Capture One • Google Docs & Drive • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro, Audition)
Professional Experience
TDPhoto, Santa Monica, CA 09/2001 – Present
Freelance Photographer, Producer & Editor: Leverage technical expertise, creative vision, and commitment to excellence to deliver impactful visual storytelling for high-profile clients and publications. Produce innovative 3D photography and stereography to push boundaries of visual storytelling. Utilize advanced lighting setups to enhance visual impact and meet specific project needs. Partner with photographic manufacturers to test, critique, and provide insights of cutting-edge equipment and cameras. Adapt to diverse environments and cultural contexts to produce high-quality, renowned work on global scale.
Key Competencies: Professionalism, Vision, Creativity, Adaptability, Technical Expertise, Quality Control
Secured contracts with clients including ESPN, WSJ, NYT, Sony, Time, and Activision as world-renowned photographer
●Established distinctive and innovative aesthetic and storytelling approach to differentiate style
●Built reputation of reliability, excellence, and consistent results to craft world-class portfolio
●Utilized emerging and innovative technology and techniques to remain competitive and relevant
Key Competencies: Sports & Event Photography, Storytelling, Problem Solving, Organization
Increased following and reach of X-Games brand extensively with high quality and engaging coverage of events
●Gathered thrilling action shots, behind-the-scenes content, and athlete stories to engage audience
●Conveyed unique insights into athlete prep, gear setups, and event logistics to provide insider view
●Paired visuals with storytelling narratives to highlight athlete journeys and create emotional connections
Key Competencies: Innovation, Subject Matter Expert, Technology, Collaboration, Problem Solving
Revolutionized camera capabilities by consulting with PocketWizard flash to allow flash sync to 8000th/second
●Researched camera capabilities to understand shutter mechanisms, flash synchronization, and limitations
●Experimented with flash units and transmitters to fine tune settings and achieve faster sync speeds
●Conducted field tests to ensure modified setup worked reliably in various lighting and shooting conditions
ebikes.org, Santa Monica, CA 04/2023 – 06/2024
Writer & Reviewer: Collaborated with dynamic team of experts to launch consumer-focused website providing comprehensive and reliable information on e-bikes. Played key role shaping platform content strategy to establish it as trusted resource for consumers exploring e-bike purchases. Authored detailed, objective reviews of various e-bike models to communicate features, performance, and value to support informed decisions. Brokered deal to purchase all assets of Electric Bike Action magazine and digital assets.
Key Competencies: Digital & Web Design, Content Creation, Creativity, Attention to Detail, Branding
Improved brand recognition in highly competitive market with complete design and launch of website
●Leveraged subject matter expertise to plan design elements, layout, and brand vision
●Optimized website structure, metadata, and content to maximize visibility through SEO
●Tested site for bugs, incorporated stakeholder feedback, and gauged performance to initiate official launch
Hi-Torque Publications, Valencia, CA 02/2016 – 02/2023
Editor, Electric Bike Action Magazine: Maintained deep understanding of e-bike and electric motorcycle industries to provide timely and insightful reporting. Led creation and delivery of industry news, product reviews, and lifestyle articles. Soley produced 82 pages of editorial content and photography for each issue. Managed entire production process from initial conceptualization to final publication. Developed content to grow readership and engagement across print and digital platforms. Engaged with manufacturers, innovators, and enthusiasts to stay at forefront of emerging trends and technologies.
Key Competencies: Podcasting, Social Media, Print, Digital & Social Media, Process Improvement, Efficiency
Enhanced brand awareness and market positioning by streamlining operations and increasing social media following
●Built processes, best practices, and content strategy to meet ensure consistent, high-quality deliverables
●Leveraged social media, YouTube, and podcasting to maximize reach and build brand awareness
●Created content scheduling and engaged community directly to gather 9K+ Instagram followers
Eldergadget, LLC, Beverly Hills, CA 10/2010 – 02/2016
Editor-in-Chief (06/2014 – 02/2016): Authored in-depth tech reviews to provide insightful commentary on products and applications tailored to senior audiences. Oversaw all editorial operations and content strategy. Directed team of internal staff and freelance writers to ensure content aligned with publication vision and audience expectations.
Other Relevant Experience
Special Olympics Southern California, Santa Monica, CA Volunteer Photographer 2011 - 2024
DriverlessCar.com, Remote Editor 2013 - 2016
eTicket.tv, Beverly Hills, CA Editor-in-Chief 2010 - 2014
Education, Certificates, Memberships, Projects & Publications
Brooks Institute, Ventura, CA
Bachelor of Commercial Photography (GPA 4.0)
Part 107 Licensed Drone Pilot
Nikon Professional Services Member
‘BMX Trix & Techniques For The Track’, MBI Publishing Co LLC, 2013
‘BMX Trix & Techniques For The Park & Street’, MBI Publishing Co LLC, 2013