Behind the lens
We are
Old Oak Photo Co.
Hey there, we are so glad you’re here.
We're Old Oak Photo Co., photographers based in Iowa City, IA, and we really just love capturing people as they are.
Why Old Oak?
What makes the name so special?
We chose the name Old Oak Photo Co. because like an Oak Tree, it grows BIG and tall with lots of roots that run underground. We want to grow BIG and tall like an Old Oak that runs roots everywhere to be able to share our and others stories.
Hey, I'm Tommy!
Since I can remember, pictures have always been a talent for myself. For the past six generations that I have been told, my family has been in the business of art. My great-great-grandfather’s and mothers have been painters (before cameras), my great grandfather a photographer, my grandfather a photographer, and now myself a portrait, wedding, and much more photographer! Before pursuing photography, I have been in stage in film so the camera is not new to myself. What drew me to being behind the camera, rather in front is the documentation of other people’s happiness! Documenting other people’s stories has been such an amazing journey that I am so happy to be apart of.
I am so excited to be able to get started with you!!
~Tommy
Hi, I'm Shelbi!
Hello Everyone!
I am the better half of Old Oak Photo Co. The camera is not new to me either since Tommy and I have been together since he started photography. Tommy has not only been an amazing bestfriend, and soulmate but an amazing mentor as well. So you practically get x2 of the amazingness of Tommy with me there! I will not always be the one behind the camera though, but I am the one working behind the scenes to help fix hair, makeup, and backgrounds to make sure your pictures are perfect! I can also help wrangle and pose your little ones for pictures, especially fur babies! We have three crazy dogs, so I have plenty of experience getting them to focus for pictures! : ) I also assist Tommy with editing and give second opinions to make sure your photos are exactly how you dreamed! I love helping to capture all of life’s beautiful moments and I am very thankful I could assist Tommy in this journey.
I can’t wait to work with all of you and see your smiling faces!!!
~Shelbi
Fun Facts
Coffee
Avid coffee and caffeine drinkers!
Night Shifters
We work nights meaning we are working on your items all night long like Owls!
Dogs
We have 3 DOGS! Yes THREE. It can get crazy, but we love our fur babes.
23
We are 23 years old and working on our Bachelor's.
"Great Photography is about depth of feeling, not depth of field."
- Peter Adams
Testimonials
"Tommy has always excessed expectations during our shoots. He captures the most important details for every project and I find myself almost daily going back to look at them because of the joy they bring me. You'll never be disappointed with his work!" ~ Emmalea
"Did a mini session for Mother's Day and they were so kind and accommodating! Even when out little boy didn't want to smile they got some super cute candid shots!" ~ Lydia
"Tommy makes the atmosphere not quiet and awkward! Usually when you go get pictures done, it is super awkward and quiet, but Tommy is no stranger to anyone, and you are consistent moving and are apart of the whole process instead of just standing there waiting for the picture. He's very comedic as well, when I needed my son to laugh or smile, he took his shoe off and has someone else slap him with it, and when that didn't work he turned on my son's favorite show. Tommy really knows how to capture the picture perfect moment and goes the extra mile to capture the much needed and called for smiles" ~ Xianne
"Tommy and Shelbi are truly the best, they make you feel so comfortable and they pull out all the stops to get the most stunning photos for you; I loved how casual and calm it felt. Like just a group hanging out, no cameras, no pressure." ~ Lea
"I loved how you went above and beyond and created a beautiful setting in the park! We also really appreciate how patient you are with our daughter; You were also extremely accommodating with an outside session and rain in the forecast! Thanks for all you do!" ~ Lacey
Get in Touch
Inquire with us so we can document those moments!