We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tom O’Connor. Check out our conversation below.
Tom, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Golf. I played golf in college and for a time after. My journey to California to pursue hairdressing unfortunately took my time, and golf went to the back burner. Two of my photography colleagues recently started golfing, and their obsession and trash talk inspired me to dust off my clubs and get back into it. I have re-discovered my passion for the game and look forward to spending more time outside on the fairways.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Thank you for taking the time to meet me. My name is Tom O’Connor. I am a locally based photographer and graphic designer based in Carlsbad. Currently, I split my time between photography and building websites, and designing mobile apps for my clients. Photography has afforded me amazing opportunities. I work regularly with the NBA and locally with the SD Clippers. Destination and corporate photography consumes a large portion of my calendar. Over the past five years, I’ve been lucky to visit many countries and meet amazing people, local legends, and celebrities. Graphic design has always been a skill I had, but only over the last few years have I pursued it as a career. Working with a local entrepreneur, I have been able to take his vision and pair it with my creativity to bring his ideas to life. I spend upwards of 100+ days on the road delivering the best possible experience to my clients.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
Eddy Matchette. Believe it or not, that is his real name. My first year as an NBA photographer, Eddy told me to stick with him and he would show me the ropes. He helped me to settle in and find my way within the NBA crew, and 15 years later, I am still working with them. Over the years, Eddy and I have worked on numerous projects, traveled, and even have found time to go fishing, although he is yet to outfish me, and it’s killing him. His mentorship has been one of the most valuable items in my camera bag , but his friendship is even more cherished.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
What not to do next time I want to be successful.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
Bigfoot is real. Sometimes you just have to believe.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
Me. I know that sounds egotistical, but I know that in my profession, the relationship is the foundation. There are many talented photographers and designers out there. I love my clients because they also love me, and our working relationship is what is truly magical. I don’t just bring my camera, snap a few pics, and collect a check. I strive to leave my clients looking forward to our next project.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thetopexperience.com
- Instagram: @bigtomphotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigtomoconnor/
- Twitter: https://x.com/BigTomLasVegas
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigtomphotography
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigtomimagery
- Other: Getty Images Portfolio
https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/tom-oconnor?family=editorial&sort=best#license
Image Credits
All images credited to Tom O’Connor.
Pictured: Steph Curry and Tracy Morgan copyright NBAE via Tom O
