Freelance Photographer Specializing in HABS/HAER Documentation

Positive Image Photographic Services was established in 1982 by photographer, Tavo Olmos. Starting as a B&W photo lab serving the Pasadena community, and specializing in archival reproduction of historic photographic prints and negatives. Clients included the Pasadena Public Library, Pasadena Museum of History and Pasadena Heritage.

In 1991, Positive Image began offering HABS/HAER photo-documentation of historic structures. Teaming with preservation consultants and municipalities throughout greater Southern California, notable projects included the Rose Bowl, Rand Corporation, NASA and Boeing Production Facilities, Beverly Hills Hotel and the Century Plaza Hotel.

HABS/HAER projects are administered by the National Park Service. Projects involving Positive Image Photographic Services can be seen on the Library of Congress HABS/HAER Collection site by searching “Tavo Olmos”.

City of Pasadena Photographer​

For over a decade, Tavo served as subcontractor to the City of Pasadena. Assignments included work for The Mayor’s Office, City Manager, City Council, Public Information Office (City Newsletter), and Public Works and Water and Power Department projects.

Undoubtedly, the most noteworthy and intensive project was the Restoration of the Colorado Street Bridge. See the project description below
for more information.

The Colorado Street Bridge Restoration Project

The mystique of the Colorado Street Bridge is undeniable. For over a century the grand landmark has stood as a beacon to all who come to Pasadena. The effort to restore the structure has become a symbol of achievement in preservation,
engineering and civic pride.

Pasadena photographer Tavo Olmos was contracted by the City to document the two year project. In 2013, on the occasion of the bridge centennial, Tavo published a book that features select views of the project, and embellished with the personal reflections of the principals responsible for bringing the project to life.

Former Mayor Bill Bogaard welcomes the reader with an inspiring message. Pasadena Heritage founder and former Director, Claire Bogaard, shares her thoughts in the Forward. Local author and historian Ann Scheid sets the stage in the Introduction. And, former Directors of Public Works, Art Krieger and Cynthia Kurtz write about their experiences in
guiding this extraordinary project.

Ultimately, this book is an homage to the people who built and preserved a beloved local landmark; the architects, engineers, civic leaders and community organizers who worked tirelessly to make it possible; and in doing so, bringing about an awareness and appreciation of a unique spirit in an uncommon place — Pasadena

Click here to view a draft PDF of the book.
To purchase the book, please visit, balconypress.com/the-colorado-street-bridge/

Neutra in Roatan, The Island Dream

Architect Dion Neutra has led the Neutra firm for the last half of its illustrious nine decades of service. Dion’s work and unique experience serve to further secure the Neutra legacy; Richard Neutra is revered the world over as one of the most influential architects of our time.
 
Dion’s son, Nick Neutra, is in the process of building a multi-structure complex on the Honduran island of Roatan. Dion and Nick formed the team to conceptualize the project starting in 2007. This cooperative effort represents a milestone in a
tradition of creative expression.
 
 
Producer: Tavo Olmos
DP: John Kiffe
Editor: François Maurin
Music: Jim Kimo West, Guitar Stories, “Na Koa Moku O Keawe”
Playing for Change, Gimme Shelter
 
Special thanks to Dion and Nick Neutra