Daily Inspiration: Meet Tonya Osborne

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonya Osborne.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
At first glance, it may surprise many that I’ve been a part of the music industry for over 30 years and have run my own photography business for more than two decades. I started my journey in 1991 as a backup singer, later joining Bobby Jones & the Nashville Super Choir and contributing background vocals for artists such as Darryl Coley, Karen Clark-Sheard, Beverly Crawford, Shirley Caesar, and many others.

In 1998, I discovered my passion for makeup artistry and decided to pursue it professionally. After gaining experience in various fashion shows, video shoots, and photo shoots, I found myself drawn back to the world of music. I decided to focus on marketing and promotions in the industry. In 2000, I founded T-Oz Marketing & Promotions, primarily catering to small businesses, churches, and independent artists, helping them establish their branding identity and presence.

Over the years, T-Oz Marketing & Promotions evolved and expanded its offerings. We ventured into entertainment and media and rebranded as E-Three; Exclusive Entertainment Enterprises. From 2004 to 2010, I served as part of the business and road management team for the multi-Grammy award-winning group Take 6, and had the privilege of working with iconic figures like Stevie Wonder, George Duke, and producer Quincy Jones.

In 2007, E-Three expanded further, introducing Tonya Osborne Photo & Design as a professional entity, encompassing photography, graphic arts, and small business branding. I continued to grow my portfolio, working with artists and corporate sponsors, even becoming the first independent company to secure a contract with the international child outreach organization World Vision as an Artist Representative.

I’ve had the opportunity to share my expertise nationally, delivering guest lectures at universities, participating in music industry functions, and contributing to artist development. Presently, I hold the position of CEO at Tonya Osborne Photo & Design and serve on the Adobe Photoshop Advisory Board.

I’ve also lent my skills as a Media Marketer, Photographer, and Brand Imaging Specialist to various organizations, including Drexel Preparatory Academy, Smithson-Craighead Academy, The Cupcake Collection, Greater Grace Temple Community Church, Watson Grove Church, World Vision Outreach, AfterTouch Music, and more. My roles encompass creating “roll-out” packages, Branding, Direct Mail Marketing, Social Media Marketing, TV Media development, recruitment, special events, and much more.

None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the invaluable guidance of my late mother, Emma Osborne, affectionately known as “The Mommy.” Her unwavering emphasis on consistency and excellence provided the focus and purpose that continue to drive me today. I remain committed to my slogan, “I design your vision with quality and excellence,” in everything I do.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is there such a thing as a smooth road? While my journey hasn’t been riddled with potholes, I’ve certainly encountered my fair share of unnecessary detours, be it due to poor decisions, unexpected disruptions, or the unpredictable twists and turns of life itself.

In each of these instances, I view them as valuable life lessons that keep me moving forward on my path. Whether I’m forging a new trail or tracing the footsteps of those who came before, there’s always a wealth of experiences and knowledge to gain along the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I offer a wide range of photography services tailored to meet diverse client needs.

Specializing in portrait, event, fashion, commercial, corporate, lifestyle, and artistic photography, I aim to capture the essence of subjects, create memorable event moments, align fashion visuals with brand identity, produce impactful commercial content, provide professional corporate imagery, convey lifestyles or atmospheres, and explore unique artistic concepts.

Clients can trust my commitment to delivering high-quality, compelling photography that aligns with their specific needs and showcases excellence in every shot.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory was going to fashion shows. I was always enamored with the models and how they moved and walked to the beat of the music. I was always drawing and writing on the pictures in Ebony and Jet magazines…I even tried to make paper dolls out of the models.

It was a great beginning to what I do now, I’ve always loved the spotlight not being in but actually “making” it….deciding where it would go and who it would highlight. Behind-the-scenes stuff…

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tonyaosbornephoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyaosbornephoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonyaosbornephotoanddesign