My Biz: Keeping retail photo dreams alive

  Dave Johnson has been 'an addicted photographer' since high school.

'I took photos of my fellow athletes and friends and of people who requested photos,' he said. 'It was a great way to meet people.'

Today, photography continues to introduce Johnson to people. As the owner and manager of Photo Pro in Cedar Rapids, he has the opportunity to interact with a variety of customers — from the family photographer taking photos of their kids, to hobby and commercial photographers — on a daily basis.

'We calibrate our machines every day for the best quality product,' Johnson said, noting that his team can print on a variety of papers — glossy, matte, luster, metallic, and velvet — and materials, including canvas and aluminum. They can print large scale and even offer custom framing. 

Johnson said another big component of their business is photography education. Photo Pro offers a variety of classes throughout the year; one upcoming event will feature nationally renowned photographer Eddie Tapp, who will share tips and tricks in a free workshop April 25.

The only photo store left in the Cedar Rapids community, Photo Pro is entering its 35th year of business. (It also has a business customers base, including The Gazette.)

But Johnson noted that the evolution of the smartphone has changed the photography industry. Photo Pro now offers an app called 'Photo Pro To Go' where customers can download and print photos right from their phone.

'We also encourage people to come in with their cellphone and get those photos archived,' he said. 'Not a week goes by that we aren't doing image recovery for a customer.'

Johnson said Photo Pro has tried to evolve to meet the local market's demand. 'As things evolve we have tried to evolve too.' He is particularly proud of the photo restoration services they offer a Photo Pro, as well.

'People leave here so moved by what we are able to do for them,' he said.

While he still has a true love of photography, Johnson's duties at Photo Pro tend to keep him from taking too many photos of his own these days. But Johnson is thankful for the opportunity to interact with customers.

'It puts a bounce in my step when I am able to help other people accomplish their photographic dreams,' he said.

• Name: Dave Johnson

• Title: Owner/Manager

• Company: Photo Pro

• Address: 153 Collins Rd. NE, Cedar Rapids

• Phone: (319) 395-9121

• Website: http://www.photoproonline.com/