With a background in visual arts, Brad Donner began his business doing graphics but soon found that adding photography to his list of services was beneficial for the business and he was soon working with large clients like Ameristar Casino and Nebraska Furniture Mart. As this part of the business took off, Brad also began working on building a photo booth as he knew this would be a popular addition. After seven years, he finished the booth and began renting it under the name Ham It Up. The photo booth is completely customizable for any occasion, including business events, weddings and parties.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have three sons. Two are out of the house and the other is five years old.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
In 1996, I had my foot crushed and that changed the dynamics of my entire life. I was told I would never walk again, but I persevered and was able to overcome the challenge.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I like to get out in nature and fish or just relax outdoors.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
Probably the accomplishments of the company. I have a very easy-going personality and never really get worked up about anything, so when I get a big client or have a large accomplishment, I tend to downplay it.
What are you the most proud of?
Starting my business from scratch and getting to this point. In a year’s time, I had my foot crushed, was hit by a motorcycle and got divorced. I’m very proud I was able to come back from this and get my business to where it is today.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Do what you love and the money will follow.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
I would like to make Ham It Up into a franchise and then expand my photography more into a fine arts type of business.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
There never seems to be enough time in the day, so I would like to be able to travel the speed of light so I can be in more places faster.
What are your plans for retirement?
I would like my businesses to be self-sustaining so I can live somewhere warm and enjoy my life and get back into sculpting and painting again.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I’m a pretty good cook.
Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to do bookkeeping and accounting.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
What is your favorite movie?
Star Wars
What is your favorite TV show?
Two and a Half Men
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Grand China Buffet off of Dodge
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Thomas Edison
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
You can email brad@donnerdigital.com or call (402) 677-4094.
They can also visit Donner Digital Photography/Ham It Up online at www.donnerdigital.com.