I'm Don Orkoskey. I'm a professional photographer, artist, designer, and teacher. I've worked for more than 20 years as a photographer, nearly as long as a designer, and have always been an artist.
I'm neurodivergent. That means my brain works a bit differently. Sometimes it's a good thing, like when it comes to thinking creatively, seeing things differently, and solving certain types of problems. Sometimes it's a real struggle. Actually most of the time it is. For decades I've been told to bottle up my authentic self and mask who I am. I'm not doing so any longer. I am who I am. I love myself. I hope you will too, if not that's your loss. If so then strap in because it's going to be a lot of fun!
I am fascinated with our world. I love sharing that fascination and the things that I've learn including the skills I've mastered such as photography. I see teaching as a multidimensional process where I can not only share knowledge but can hear and experience other points of view that keep my understanding growing.
I currently teach photography, videography, art making, & more.
Contact me to hire me, talk about collaboration, or even just to leave a few friendly words.
Social Media
Question Everything.
Especially the systems that surround you, that confine you and define your world. Systems you've made consciously or otherwise, systems which far more powerful people have made, even natural systems. Learn how they work. Challenge and deconstruct the ones that harm you and those you love. Corrupt systems which harm others, especially those without agency, and which seek to harm the world around us all for the benefit of a limited few.
We have the power, it is within us but we have to understand how these systems work and adjust the role we play within them in order to build a better world.
I hope that my work inspires you; that you will begin to ask questions about the systems that impact all of us. At a minimum I hope you'll think about the systems that impact you. You are surrounded by systems you've build intentionally as well as through unconscious means. Additionally you're impacted by systems that others have created. Many of those systems were not created with your needs being considered.
I hope that you will begin to examine those systems and ask if they're healthy or if they need to be changed and will put forth the work to change them. When we come together we can accomplish great things. Together we can both topple tyrants and build healthy communities.
Don Orkoskey
I'm a photographer, artist, and designer. I live in Pittsburgh, PA, USA. I've exhibited my photography around the world and performed as an artist since 2004. I've studied design and systems and help clients solve complex problems.
When not creating art, photography, or design I teach photography classes and private lessons along with a wide variety of community partners.
I'm fascinated by the human condition, by the systems that we create or allow to be created around us. I'm deeply concerned about our planet and its ability to sustain life. I'm passionate about the rights of all working people and those who are unable to work. Their lives are impacted by systems meant to keep them from being empowered while rewarding greed and narcissism.
Upcoming Classes & Events
I'm teaching or involved with the following upcoming classes & events. Check the links to see more information.
The best FREE Nature Photography Walk in Pittsburgh: June Edition (TBD) 9:30AM
Join me for my monthly free nature photography walk in Frick Park. Everyone is welcome, all ages, all skill levels - everyone.
Photography Class for Parents Sat. June 4th 11AM
Learn how to take incredible photos of your kiddos in this fun and engaging class in Pittsburgh's Schenley Park.
