Member Profile: Danny Izzo

"I try to see something considered ordinary by others and do something with it in the camera that makes it look less ordinary. (EXTRAordinary)"

I was born in Troy, NY, and grew up in Peru, Illinois.  During a long college career at McNeese, Southern Illinois University and Western Illinois University I studied music and photography.  In 1988 I moved to Lafayette, Louisiana, and opened Nouveau Photeau soon after.
 
In 2007, I earned the degree of Certified Professional Photographer from the Professional Photographers of America.  Less than 2% of all professional photographers have earned this degree.  I teach several photography classes through the Potpourri Division at UL.
 
I have long been a huge fan of Ansel Adams as well as the portrait work of Kenny Rogers. (Yeah, the country singer) I have been influenced by Ansel Adam’s work, but also by a gentleman  named Bob Kahn, and Louisiana natives Kirk Voclain and Tim Babin.
 
My business is a portrait studio, but my personal art comes mostly from my relaxation time away from the studio. As an example, when COVID and the shutdowns hit, I took the opportunity to pursue more personal pursuits which led to an exhibit. It was first displayed at the gallery of the Louisiana Secretary of State’s building, and several other venues since.
 
I was once told that a creativity is the act of taking something ordinary and make something extraordinary. That is precisely what I attempt to do. I try to see something considered ordinary by others and do something with it in the camera that makes it look less ordinary. (EXTRAordinary)
 
Even in my portrait work, I try to visually show something about my subject that everyone knows, but now they SEE it visually.
 
I love to show the ordinary in an extra-ordinary fashion. I hope you enjoy my work.