We were lucky to catch up with Courtney Minotti recently and have shared our conversation below.
Courtney, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?
The story behind my business name, “Dawn Minotti Pictures,” is pretty simple. I started by removing my first name and adding “Pictures” to the end. “Minotti” is already a unique and recognizable last name, and I’ve used it throughout school and work for most of my life. Embracing it felt like a natural way to honor my Italian roots—something I hadn’t felt as connected to until I realized I didn’t need to invent a completely different name. Plus, I think it’s pretty catchy!
“Dawn,” my middle name, adds a personal touch while also tying into the idea of the feminine version of a “Don,” which in Italian signifies someone important, like a leader or boss. Think of names like “Don Corleone” or “Don Julio” that carry a sense of presence and authority.
As for the last part of the name, it took some time to settle on. Initially, I considered “Courtney Minotti Cinema” because I was focused on video work at the time. However, it didn’t have the right ring to it. Later, when I started working a 9-to-5 office job, I found that video editing took too much time, so I shifted my focus to photography, which was more manageable. I chose “Pictures” because it represents both photography and video, covering all aspects of what I wanted to offer.
And that’s how “Dawn Minotti Pictures” came to be—a name that feels personal, rooted in my heritage, and perfectly suited to my creative work.
Courtney, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Courtney Minotti, the creator behind “Dawn Minotti Pictures.” Working behind the camera has always been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember, and it’s evolved into more than just a creative outlet—it’s now my business and a way for me to connect with people and tell their stories. The name of my brand is deeply personal and reflective of my journey. It blends my middle name, “Dawn,” which symbolizes a feminine twist on the Italian “Don” (a title that conveys authority and respect), with my last name, “Minotti,” which holds my Italian heritage close. Adding “Pictures” felt like the perfect way to represent both the photography and video work I offer.
I got into this industry because I’ve always loved the power of visual storytelling. Initially, I worked in video, capturing meaningful moments and turning them into memories. But as life shifted and I took on a full-time office job, I transitioned to photography because it allowed me to keep creating while balancing my schedule. Photography feels like second nature to me—it’s an art form that combines creativity with connection, and I love every moment of it.
At Dawn Minotti Pictures, I specialize in capturing authentic and timeless moments. Whether it’s portraits, family sessions, or event photography, my goal is to tell a story through each image. I pride myself on creating a comfortable environment for my clients, where their true selves can shine. I want every client to walk away with photos that not only look beautiful but also feel deeply personal and meaningful to them.
What sets me apart is my ability to bring a blend of professionalism and authenticity to every session. My charismatic personality, creative eye, and thoughtful approach help me stand out in a crowded industry. I see each project as a collaboration, working with my clients to ensure their vision is realized. Whether I’m shooting a wedding, an artist session, or capturing someone’s everyday life, I pour my heart into my work.
I’m most proud of the connections I’ve made through my photography. Seeing someone’s face light up when they receive their photos is the best reward. It’s not just about taking pictures—it’s about creating memories, preserving moments, and celebrating people’s unique stories. It makes me feel alive.
If you’re considering working with Dawn Minotti Pictures, I want you to know that I’m here to make the process fun, comfortable, and collaborative. I value quality over quantity and always strive to deliver images that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my work—I’d love the chance to help capture your story next!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
One of my biggest goals is to create a space where my family can work and grow together. Over the years, I’ve noticed signs that this could truly be possible—a shared vision where my immediate family could collaborate. Of course, it wouldn’t come without challenges, especially when it comes to balancing different personalities and work ethics. But I genuinely believe that the experiences I’ve gained from the jobs I’ve worked in my adult life have prepared me to handle those dynamics effectively.
Each member of my family brings unique skills to the table, and I see so much potential for us to build something successful together. First and foremost, they are incredibly supportive and genuinely want to see me thrive, which means the world to me. Second, I recognize that I can’t do everything on my own, and I trust that my siblings—and even my nieces and nephews in the future—can find their place in this vision. Whether they work directly with me or contribute in their own creative ways, I want to build something where we can all be part of something meaningful.
Ultimately, my dream is to own a studio that serves multiple purposes. I want it to be more than just a space for photography or videography—it could host dance practices, whether for personal enjoyment or for professional use, as well as other creative endeavors. The goal is to create a versatile, welcoming environment that encourages growth, collaboration, and creativity without being limited to one single purpose.
Beyond that, I want to leave my footprint in people’s lives when I leave this earth. It’s important to me to create something that has an impact—a legacy that can continue long after I’m gone. Whether it’s through the stories I’ve captured, the moments I’ve preserved, or the opportunities I’ve created for my family and community, I want what I build to inspire and live on for generations. This vision isn’t just about business; it’s about family, creativity, and building something that lasts—a place where we can thrive together and make a lasting impact.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is making meaningful connections with people and capturing moments that bring them joy and that can last a lifetime. There’s nothing better than seeing someone’s face light up when they see their story told authentically through my work.
I also love the creative freedom that comes with being an artist. Every project is a chance to express myself, take on new challenges, and bring ideas to life. It’s exciting to create something unique that resonates with others and helps them see the beauty in their own moments. I grew up with minimal memories to reflect back on, so capturing anything through the lens and sharing them with people makes me feel whole.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
All professional photography captured by myself, all candid shots captured on set by crew.