The Future
Traumantic Studios is over. I had a dream, and it died. You can read about it in the archives.
I am going to continue photographing the things I want to and post them here, but I am no longer doing any photography work with other people unless they have something cool to bring to the table.
It's been fun!
Dave
If you are interested in collaborating, get in touch via the following methods.
I founded Traumantic Software in Sherman Oaks, California in 1989 as a consulting company supporting individual and networked PCs.
I started focusing on photography in the mid-1990s after people started commenting on several of my images. Over the next 10 years I continued to improve and gathered better gear and started to shoot for fun.
I relaunched as Traumantic Studios in January of 2006 focused on photography. I prefer to shoot portraits, pinups and creative projects.
In 2024 I am relaunching again in a new format. There'll be much more information in the coming months. The new format launches in July.
I keep an ARCHIVES section for old projects and side projects not related to the new project.
We hope that our photos will give you a "traumantic" experience every time, and keep you coming back in the future.
Please contact me for more details and let's get a project started.
ABOUT OUR NAMEWhen my son was 5 he was watching the opening scene of Star Wars when Princess Leia's ship is being chased by the giant Star Destroyer. Afterwards, he rushed out to the living room to tell my wife and I about it.
In his excitement to describe what he saw as either 'tremendous' or 'gigantic', those words were squashed together and the word 'traumantic' popped out. I think it is pretty cool to have your company name be inspired by Star Wars.
It was silly at the time, but it stuck with me. When I went to start my own company a year or two later, Traumantic was the perfect fit.
I am proud of the work I have done, but it's nice to hear praise from others. Here are a few reviews from previous clients regarding the work I have done for them.
If you'd like to add one of your own, please email it to me and I will put it here.
I wanted to give a shout out to a great friend and extremely talented photographer, David Arnspiger.
I have been working with David for years on my Self-in-Flict-ed project where I could just let him explore his imagination and creative abilities without worry.
Live events as well as photo shoots, David is quick, fast thinking and skilled in his craft. Entertainers, Models and Musicians have always felt comfortable with David behind the lens. From Hollywood, California to his new home here in Fort Collins, Colorado, David and Traumantic Studios are a great addition to our art and culture scene.
If you are looking for someone to help build your Modeling Portfolio, Band image, Live shows, Product photography or just some fun Pinups for your Instagram – David is the Man!
David is a terrific, creative photographer who makes even the beginner feel and look like a super model! He takes his time and makes it such an enjoyable experience, that even those hating their picture being taken can’t wait to go back! His photographs show the personality of the subject, but also his creativity. His talent speaks for itself. I’d you want a fantastic photographer and want to have a great time, David is your guy!!!!❤️
David is much more than a skilled photographer, he is a talented director, set designer, and he knows how to get the shots you want, all while being polite and professional. David quickly became me "Go to" for pics at shows as his shots are always great and unless directed by him for a certain shot, he almost vanishes out of thin air and you don't even know he is there, which is great to have in live shows. On top of all that he's a great guy and a must have at any show.
Dave Note: Warren/Scorch is probably the second most photographed person in my photographic archives. We did good work.
David is an amazing photographer and an even greater person! He is open to ideas and goes out of his way to make his subjects feel comfortable. A true professional. Highly recommend.
Miranda Smith - We shot together twice, She's part of one of my favorite sessions.
Life Gurus has nothing but amazing things to say about David. He's, professional, detail oriented and always makes sure his models are comfortable! We can come to him with any vision in mind and he will bring it to life on his studio.
Dave Note: Life Gurus Denver (Amanda and Nancy} - Five shoots so far!
David is one of my favorite photographers to work with. It's always a relaxed and fun environment. His work is so creative and unique. Definitely some of my favorite. I highly recommend.
Dave Note: Whitney Borchard - Four shoots so far!
I did my first shoot with David today and he is the best photographer by far! He is detail oriented and the pictures turned out amazing! He's flexible with what you'd like done for your photos and is a sweet man! Definitely would recommend to anyone looking for pictures taken! Amazing experience!
Kathryn Hastings - Shot January 19th, 2019.
You guys, I'm bursting at the seams with love for this shoot. I tell everyone David is my favorite photographer and I mean it. He is such a great human, and he has a unique way of capturing the soul.
DAVE NOTE: Second great review in a row from Emily, love it!
Emily Adkins - Shot July 19th, 2018
I would recommend shooting with Traumatic Studios. David is incredibly professional with his photography, yet compassionate enough to help me model with complete comfort. His talent and sense of humor make shooting a great experience that leaves you with some outstanding images.
Emily Yarberry - A review from 2018 on my old Facebook Page.
Fantastic photographer and overall just a wonderful person! He did our initial shoot and I'm super pumped as I think it was actually wonderful!
Elena Mathys - A review from 2018 on my old Facebook Page.
I can't believe I haven't left a rating yet! Working with David is one of my favorite things to do. He's a great guy with amazing pictures! I recommend him to everyone.
DAVE NOTE: Mollie did in fact leave an earlier recommendation, I just hadn't posted it yet when she wrote this one!
Mollie Mellick - A review from 2018 on my old Facebook page.
DAVE NOTE: A spontaneous comment from Galadriel Berg I used in an ad piece for a bit.
David is not only a great person he is also very passionate about his photography. He thinks outside of the box and brings people and things to life in ways others could never do.
Jason Sabin - A review from 2017 on my old Facebook Page.
DAVE NOTE: A spontaneous comment from Stephanie Wetzel I used in an ad piece for a bit.
DAVE NOTE: This was an inside joke that turned into a weird little ad. It's a testimonial from a toy.
Excellent Top-Rated photography sessions from David Arnspiger! Enjoy his top-rung, Quality Service, easy-going personality, work ethic and most of all the price is right!
Veronica Alicino - Shot July 2012 - A review from 2016 on my Facebook site.
Professional from start to finish! I wanted pictures to represent my 30's. I couldn't be happier with the results! David was kind, inspiring, and patient. His work made me feel like a model.
Jill Danielle - Shot January 2012 - A review from 2016 on my Facebook site.
Thank you, David Arnspiger, for being such an awesome photographer!
Goldie Goldsmith - Shot May and August, 2014 - Spontaneous comment after a reposted image stirred a lot of likes for Goldie.
Working with David was a lovely experience and I definitely plan to work with him again. He provided a very relaxing and professional atmosphere along with amazing pictures. I would highly recommend his services to anyone.
Mollie Mellick - Shot July and September, 2016
David has been one of the best photographers we have had the chance to work with. I have been in many local bands and worked with a lot of different photographers from professional to amateur and pound for pound he has been the best one to date. He made us all feel super comfortable and made a lot of jokes. I mean the man helped us dig a grave (to place a prop body in) I can't thank him enough.
Jeffrey McMeans - Shot January 26th, 2015
We were very impressed with the photos, professionalism, and your willingness to share them. I passed your information along to a coworker who may be planning a Vegas wedding next year.
Adele Maxson - Shot December 6th, 2014
As a comedian for over 25 years, I have been in front of the camera many times. My experience with David Arnspiger of Traumantic Studios was a facil one. I never once noticed his presence while performing. He had an organic sense of capturing a moment. Each shot I saw, I knew the moment, the punchline...time stands still. Memories are those flickering lights of flight too often obscured by the play of light of time. Let David capture your moments of memory, the light of time will forever be illuminated that way.
Kento - Shot July 25th, 2014
We loved working with you and there is nothing but love whenever we post another of your photos. We are very proud of them.
Jenna Syde - Shot May 26th, 2012
When I asked David to take my picture for my professional use in various places for publication I knew he would do a good job. I was concerned and nervous because I don't like how I appear in photographs and I am uncomfortable with being in the view of a camera.
David not only took beautiful pictures but he was able to capture some of my personality behind just the face in the picture. When I look at my picture I actually enjoy showing it and have it being out there for the public to view.
He made me feel relaxed, safe and at ease. Thank you David. You have my highest recommendation a 10 out of 10!
Jill Zinner - Shot July 23rd, 2011
We have been very pleased with David's photography over the years. He has done family portraits, graduation pictures and two weddings for our family. The best thing about working with David is he is professional yet easy going. My husband does not like having his picture taken. Period. David put him totally at ease and got some of the best shots of him to date.
I have also worked with David and his team on two high school reunions which included him making a video program to play at the reunion, candid and posed shots during the reunion and a memory disc made from all of the above.
His prices were comparable to the "recommended" photographers with his work being far superior to what they provided.
I'm sure we will be calling upon David in the future!
Darlene Prichard Kroah - Shot August 3rd, 2013
I still can't believe that Dave got such an amazing smile and pose from our 9-year old daughter who utterly refuses when we try to take her picture. Thanks, Dave, you're a wonder!
Eric Zala Family - Shot May 19th, 2013
Getting some GREAT auditions from your head shot!
Veronica Alicino - Shot June 7th, 2012
Five Star review on my old Facebook Page
Jennifer Beckwith - Shot February 6th, 2011, and January 29th, 2012
My family and I are extremely pleased with the casual family photographs that you took of us at Johnny Carson Park in Burbank prior to my son entering the Navy. Everything looked natural and not posed . . . exactly what we were looking for. We look forward to working with you in the future!
Robert Brewster - Shot October 23rd, 2011
Five Star review on my old Facebook Page
Demarie Day - Shot December 13th, 2010
When looking for a photographic representation that stirs up emotions, and captures the unique beyond your average photographer, David Arnspiger of Traumantic Studios is all this, and MORE.
David captured the most amazing location modeling/portfolio shots of my step-daughter, not to mention that every on-location/event he has shot, he captures the entire essence of life and I am happy to recommend his skills for your shoots.
Deborah Vavra (Morgan Wolter, Model) - Shot October 10th, 2010
Five Star review on my old Facebook Page
Julie MacDonald - Shot January 30th, 2010
Working with David was a pleasure every step of the way. In addition to being accommodating and professional, he really made us feel comfortable with the process. His shots came out great and he just made things so easy for us.
Elliot Randall - Shot November 24th, 2009