Eric Donahue
Eric Donahue is a photographer, entrepreneur, and professional grandpa—though not necessarily in that order. He turned his passion for photography into a full-time career, a thriving business, and enough legacy material to keep family photo albums well-stocked for generations. He’s happily married to the love of his life, Becky, and together they’ve helped raise three awesome kids and wrangled five adorable, high-energy grandkids.
Eric studied photography at Upper Iowa University between 1995–1997, back when film was still a thing and selfies weren’t. He also studied at the American Institute of Business, and later—because he apparently doesn’t sleep—completed premed requirements at ETSU before attending New England College of Medicine. Spoiler: he didn’t become a doctor, but he can diagnose bad lighting in under three seconds.
He launched his photography business in 2015, opened his first studio in 2017, and hasn’t looked back since (except to grab another lens). Eric’s work has earned international platinum and gold awards, and he’s been mentored by some of the best photographers in the business. But his proudest achievement? Creating a space where his kids could grow their own dreams. Victoria mastered makeup under studio lights and now works her magic professionally. She does amazing work. She strives to capture her clients personality while she glams them up. Natalie is a gifted photographer whose talent in lighting, posing, and editing regularly outshines even her dad’s—though he still insists he taught her everything she knows (but not everything he knows). His son Anthony is a creative soul too—he’s a musician carving his own path. He is even funnier than his dad and does not like dad jokes. Just don’t ask Eric about the grandkids unless you’ve got an afternoon free and nowhere to be.
In 2023, Eric was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. It’s been a challenge, sure—but in true Eric fashion, he responded by doubling down on life. He’s now raising awareness about Parkinson’s while continuing to shoot, travel, laugh, and post far too many smiling selfies with Becky.
Eric has served on the boards of several local nonprofits, including the Jeremiah School, which he holds near and dear to his heart—right next to his camera and maybe a spare battery.