Pasquale J. Cuomo is a seasoned photographer whose journey with the camera spans over five decades. Pasquale’s love affair with photography began in his teens, and by the early 1980s, he had transitioned from a passionate amateur to a part-time professional. By 1985, photography had become his full-time profession, a path he pursued with dedication for more than 20 years.
Pasquale’s career is marked by versatility. He’s done it all: fashion shoots, public relations photography, legal documentation, architectural photography, weddings, and advertising. His work has graced the pages of trade magazines and publicity brochures, capturing moments and stories with a distinctive eye. His portfolio has been showcased at venues such as the Alliance of Queens Artists Gallery, the Queens Museum, Queens Botanical Gardens, and the NYC DCA Gallery on Columbus Circle.
Despite his professional success, Pasquale considers himself an “old school” photographer. He draws inspiration from the greats of American art and photography. The Hudson River School, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper have significantly influenced his artistic vision. In photography, he looks up to legends like Mathew Brady, Andrew Russell, Edward Weston, Walker Evans, W. Eugene Smith, and Ansel Adams. These influences are evident in Pasquale’s work, which combines technical precision with a deep appreciation for the art of visual storytelling.
One pivotal moment in Pasquale’s photographic journey was his trip to Kenya and Tanzania in August 1974. At 19, he embarked on this adventure organized by the American Museum of Natural History, armed with a Nikon Ftn camera and a few lenses. This 18-day expedition took him to some of East Africa’s most famous parks, including Amboseli, Tsavo, Naivasha, Keekorok, and Ngorongoro Crater. The trip left an indelible mark on him, shaping his future in photography.
Pasquale fondly recalls the memories and experiences from this trip, which he considers the real beginning of his development as a photographer. Despite the limitations of his equipment—his longest lens was only 135mm, and he used Ektachrome film—his work from this period garnered praise and recognition. Friends and family marveled at his photos, boosting his confidence and solidifying his passion for photography.
Among the many photos Pasquale took during this trip, a few stand out. One is of a zebra in the Ngorongoro Crater, a place known for its stunning wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Capturing animals in their natural habitat requires quick reflexes, as they often turn away after a brief glance. Pasquale managed to capture the zebra in a fleeting moment, a testament to his skill and patience.
Another memorable shot is the “Baboon Trio” taken on the roof of the famous Treetops Lodge. This unique lodge, now closed, required guests to be led in by a rifle-bearing guide and locked in for the night. On the roof, amidst the action, Pasquale captured the baboons posing nonchalantly, creating a striking image of wildlife and human interaction.
The “Black Maned Lion” photo is another gem from this trip. Taken in the Ngorongoro area, this image features a majestic lion walking by Pasquale’s tour vehicle, mere feet away. The close proximity and the timing of the shot highlight Pasquale’s ability to seize the moment.
An image of an elephant, taken with a 50mm lens, offers a sense of the animal’s immense size. Standing in a watery mud hole, the elephant’s darker, wet lower body contrasts with its lighter upper half. Pasquale recalls the thrill of being so close to these magnificent creatures, noting that while it’s uncommon for elephants to approach vehicles, this one did, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
Reflecting on his journey, Pasquale acknowledges that his trip to East Africa was a turning point. Although he didn’t pursue professional photography immediately, the seeds were planted during this adventure. The compliments and encouragement he received upon his return home sparked a realization that perhaps he had a talent worth pursuing.
Pasquale’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a lifelong love for photography. His experiences, from his early days as an amateur to his professional achievements, reflect a deep commitment to capturing the world through his lens. Whether photographing wildlife in Africa or working with clients in New York, Pasquale Cuomo’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of photography to inspire, document, and transform.
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