A passion for photography across New York
How Yves-Richard Blanc became the go-to photographer for the state’s political, nonprofit, and private sectors, all while embracing the Buffalo community.
On the Record
By Ralph R. Ortega
Photographer Yves-Richard Blanc has worked with judges, political campaigns, nonprofits, universities, and various professionals across New York state for more than 25 years. One of his most recent photo shoots included an afternoon on April 27 with staffers from O'Donnell & Associates inside the Capitol and outdoors on the steps of the Legislative Office Building in Albany. Blanc also took headshots of associate Peter McGowan and myself at OD&A's Washington Avenue office. It was one of many assignments Blanc has taken on for OD&A over the years, continuing a strong partnership and appreciation for his creativity and work.
I met with Blanc afterwards to learn more about his commercial photography and marketing business Blanc Photographie, discuss how the 61-year-old Haitian native arrived in Buffalo (thanks to his political connections) and stayed more than two decades ago, and how he engages and supports the community, including a free photo shoot session to celebrate Juneteenth next month.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
What do people call you?
Most people call me Yves or Eve.
How old are you?
I turned 61 in January. I was born in 1965.
What date in January?
January 1st.
Wow — one of those babies. Where are you originally from?
I was born in Haiti and moved to the States [via Canada] when I was eight years old. My two sisters and I went to Montreal … for school and stayed with my aunt. I lived there for about eight years — that's where I learned how to skate and play hockey. It was amazing.
During that time, I traveled to New York City — where my parents lived in Brooklyn — for holidays and summers. Then, when I (reached middle school age), I moved permanently to New York City. I went to middle school in Manhattan, high school in Brooklyn. I attended Prospect Heights High School, and for college I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology.
What did you study at FIT?
Commercial photography, with some marketing and advertising.
Are you married?
No, I'm currently single. I've been divorced and am focused on being happy and healthy … I had a major stroke about four years ago but worked hard to recover and return to my work.
How did you get into your current business, and are you based in Buffalo now?
Yes, I'm based in Buffalo and have been for about 22 years. I started my consulting business in 2001. I was invited to Buffalo by Byron Brown when he was in the state Senate. I had already started my own firm in 2001, doing consulting work with nonprofits and businesses in Brooklyn, and also working with people across New York state. That's how I met Byron. He wanted more minority-owned businesses in Buffalo and invited me to visit with some of my clients. I came up with about 12 clients — two of them decided to expand into Buffalo. About six months later, one of those clients asked me to stay and help run the company. It was tough at first, but I fell in love with the city and built my business here.
How did you meet Jack O'Donnell?
I met him years ago in Buffalo through political and business circles. We became friends and later started working together professionally, especially as he built his company.
How many times have you worked with O'Donnell & Associates?
Around a dozen times across Buffalo, Albany and New York City. Mostly events and firm photography so far, though we've discussed client work.
How many times have you shot the firm itself?
This latest shoot was my first with them since early 2025, but I've done multiple headshots and branding images for Jack over time.
Tell me about your approach to this latest shoot.
I planned to capture authentic, editorial-style images — individuals, groups and candid moments — showing the firm's personality, collaboration, and presence in Albany's political environment.
Can you mention some of your other notable clients?
I've worked with Hodgson Russ, M&T Bank, Bank of America, Five Star Bank and several major nonprofits.
Are you one of those who gets to do what you love most in life for a living?
Absolutely. I love what I do. I love helping people grow and seeing positive outcomes from my work. That's very important to me. I have four (adult) children, and I want them to see that their father contributes to something meaningful. I also have a passion for art photography. I travel and capture landscapes, portraits, and cultural moments. And I give back. For example, every year during Juneteenth in Buffalo, I provide free professional photos to the community.
Where do you do the Juneteenth photo shoot?
MLK Park in Buffalo.
You don't look like you're planning to retire any time soon, right? What's next for you?
I want to keep working, hopefully into my 70s. I want to continue helping clients, but also travel and capture the beauty of different cultures around the world. I'd like to bring those stories back and share them with younger generations. That's something that's very important to me.
About Ralph R. Ortega
Ralph has been a reporter and editor for several major newspapers and magazines for more than 30 years, and is now vice president of public affairs at O’Donnell & Associates.
Most recently, he was the editor-in-chief of the award-winning City & State NY magazine. At City & State, Ralph managed a team of talented journalists covering the downfall of former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the ascent of current Gov. Kathy Hochul, New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ election campaign and later his administration, as well as the election of Mayor Zohran Mamdani. In his role, Ralph became a well-known player in New York’s political world, emceeing, moderating, and conducting interviews at City & State events. He also wrote a weekly column that focused on policy, transportation, and advocated for greater Latino representation at City Hall and in city government. Read Ralph’s full bio and contact information.