At the age of 15, Francisco Custodio left Rabo de Peixe, São Miguel, Açores in 1915 in search of a better life in the United States. In US, he apprenticed with a photographer before returning to his home town of Rabo de Peixe where he opened a portrait studio. His children also became involved with the father’s photography business in the Azores, and when they immigrated to Canada they started their very own portrait studio in Toronto. José Pimentel founded J.C. Pimentel Photography in 1975 in Toronto, Canada. The studio was run by the family which consisted of José, his wife Maria, and their four children. During its 30 years of business, J.C. Pimentel Photography has enjoyed many successes, including being given the “Top Choice Award” for Photography for four consecutive years. J.C. Pimentel Photography attributes its success to family passion and client satisfaction. As their clients’ families grew, so did the business, making it a true landmark in the community. José is now retired, and his youngest son George, has taken over the family business.
George, a graduate from Ryerson University, worked along side his father, José Pimentel, and he has taken the family business to the next level. George is now considered Canada’s most famous celebrity photographer. He has covered national and international celebrity events such as the Oscars, Emmys and Golden Globes. George ignited his passion for celebrity photography in 1993 when he was just an enthusiastic movie fan, grabbing “one shot” of his favourite celebrity-Robert DeNiro.
Presently George still oversees the family business while contributing to magazines such as Flare, Hello and US Weekly. His photos are seen around the world.
Text and images from:
http://pimentelphoto.com/
http://www.yummymummyclub.ca/george-pimentel-celebrity-photographer
http://watch.fashiontelevision.com/in-fashion/2010/march-2010/clip278488#clip278488 (Glen Baxter talks to george pimentel)
