OUR TEAM
Teamwork is indeed essential for achieving the best results. A successful photo shoot involves much more than just setting up lights and cameras; it encompasses a range of collaborative efforts. It requires careful coordination, clear communication, skilled design, and thoughtful styling long before the actual shoot begins. During the shoot, the talent and creativity of the team come into play, ensuring that everything flows smoothly and efficiently. Afterward, our emphasis shifts to the reliable delivery of client work, fully aware of how crucial it is to meet deadlines and exceed expectations.
Michael Potthast, M.Photog., CPP, FDPE
Joel Faubert Video Producer
Rick Maldonado Video Producer
Beverly Gustafson Studio Assistant
FACILITIES
Our Studio Facilities Are Among the Most Capable in Central Florida
• 5,000 sq. ft. studio facility.
• Strobe, Constant, and Natural Light Studio Capabilities
• Concrete cycloramic for seamless white/blue/green screen projects
• Tethered Shooting Capabilities for Live Previews during sessions.
• In-house photography lab providing clients the highest quality or rush requests
• Frame shop with custom-made and ready-made frames
• Studio Rental Space Available
Over the years, Potthast Studios has been fortunate to be featured in a number of newspapers, magazines and local publications. These stories offer a glimpse into our work, our family history and the many people and projects that have shaped the studio along the way.
Recent Client Reviews
“Mike is always excellent to work with He comes prepared, can handle everything on his own, and he is always amazing to talk to He is personable and kind and makes everyone feel at ease You can tell he loves what he does and he is very quick but delivers amazing quality Very happy with the end results and that is why we consistently come back!”
— Price Waterhouse Coopers, LLP“Mike Potthast is so great to work with! He is a true professional and does incredible work with the photos We can't thank him enough
— Jeanette Russell“It was such a great experience working with Mike!! He is so kind and really spends the time to understand your vision and what you’d like to accomplish to bring it to life! Very professional and an overall great experience”
— Kayla and Matt Wasmund
Michael Potthast, M.Photog, CPP, FDPE
Industry Credentials:
Master Photographer (M.Photog.)
Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)
Florida Degree of Photographic Excellence (FDPA)
Photography has been part of Michael Potthast’s life from the very beginning. Growing up in the family photography business founded by his father, Bill Potthast, in 1964, Mike learned the craft hands-on — from traditional darkroom techniques to lighting, composition and the day-to-day operation of a professional studio. He later studied commercial photography at Daytona State College’s Southeast Center for Photographic Studies and is also a graduate of Warner University.
Mike’s professional career has included work as a freelance photographer for the Orlando Magic as well as experience in motion and video production with Time Warner. Today, he leads Potthast Studios in Central Florida, specializing in commercial, industrial, advertising and executive photography for businesses, agencies and organizations. His assignments regularly take him throughout Florida and across the country.
With decades of professional experience, Mike has earned the Master Photographer degree and Certified Professional Photographer designation through Professional Photographers of America, as well as the Florida Degree of Photographic Excellence. His work has received additional professional recognition and awards, but the foundation of his career remains craftsmanship, consistency, attention to detail and the long-term relationships he has developed with clients — continuing a standard of quality and personal service that has defined Potthast Studios for more than 60 years.
Established 62 Years
William A. Potthast “Bill”
Trained as an oil painter at Carnegie Tech, now Carnegie Mellon University, Bill Potthast brought an artist’s eye for composition, lighting and expression to his photography. After beginning his photography career with the Winter Haven News Chief, he opened his first studio on 3rd Street and went on to become one of Florida’s most respected portrait photographers. During his career, Bill photographed generations of families, business leaders, and notable figures including President Ronald Reagan, Arnold Palmer, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, and other notable celebrities.
Bill earned both the Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman degrees, served as President of Florida Professional Photographers, taught photography throughout Florida and nationally, and was ultimately honored with induction into the Photography Hall of Fame. His commitment to craftsmanship, artistry, and personal service established the foundation Potthast Studios continues to build upon today. More than 60 years after Bill first opened the doors, those same principles remain at the heart of our work.
Our Guarantee
Established 62 years, we have the experience of providing high-quality images for generations to come. We guarantee you’ll love your images. If, for any reason, you’re not happy with them, we’ll do another session without charge. It’s important to us that the images we create for you meet or exceed your expectations.
Don't just take our word for it. What else qualifies us to be your photographer?
Of course, our portfolio is our best measure of what we do. In addition to creating high-quality images, our studio is committed to maintaining high professional standards. To ensure we’re doing that, we participate in the Certified Professional Photographer program.
While there are several technical requirements for being Certified, the best way to think about it is like board certification for a professional doctor, lawyer, accountant, etc. While you can assume that both have a certain level of knowledge, the certified professional and the certifying agency take steps to ensure that the professional continues to expand his or her expertise through education.
It’s the same way with photographers. As a Certified Photographer, you can be assured that I possess sufficient technical knowledge of my craft to consistently produce high-quality images for you... and I continue to take courses to maintain my technical and creative edge.
Our Professional Affiliations
