Our Story
Raleigh Photographers represents the photography division of a long-established creative and technology group based in Raleigh, NC. Founded in 1996 as CO2 Consulting Group, Inc., the company initially specialized in computer technology and web application development. Over the subsequent decades, it expanded into website design through Web Detailer and full-service creative services via Studio Art Lab, focusing on visual arts, graphic design, magazine layout, and publishing.
When the COVID19 pandemic halted in-person photography work in 2020, that creative foundation was redirected into Raleigh Photographers Magazine, a publication built to support and promote more than a thousand photographers across the Triangle region during an incredibly difficult time for the industry. You can browse our most recent issue here. That project proved out the idea that photographers are stronger connected than working in isolation, and it laid the groundwork for what Raleigh Photographers has planned for its next evolution.
That concept has since evolved into a professional network that connects clients with the photographer best suited to their project, matching by genre, style, and budget rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and creative production, the team delivers high-quality, client-focused photography services across the Triangle area.
Leadership Team
The leadership team brings extensive expertise in management, marketing, and creative production to oversee operations and ensure exceptional service delivery.
Don Butto: Founder and principal manager, Don draws on over 25 years of experience in photography, visual arts, and creative direction. A lifelong artist and Air Force veteran, he oversees project coordination, quality standards, and client relations, ensuring every session meets professional expectations.
Rita Daniels: Co-founder and operations manager, Rita has been integral to the company since its early years. With background experience in the film industry, including runway modeling for the US Marine Corps and on-screen work, she manages web development, finance, contracts, and day-to-day operations, providing streamlined support for all photography projects.
Laila Ali, the Studio Pup: Born in 2023, Laila is the official Studio Pup and beloved service dog. This furry team member brings joy to every shoot, and it is now a Raleigh Photographers tradition to include a fun digital composite with Laila in every in-studio session, capturing her charm alongside clients.
Join Our Network
Raleigh Photographers is built as a network, not a single studio. If you're a working photographer in the Triangle area interested in referred bookings, collaborative projects, or becoming part of the team, we'd love to hear from you.