Acacia Studios

Hi! I am Acacia (Kate) Donovan, the Owner/Operator of Acacia Studios!

In my photographic and modeling career I have been the owner, webmaster, pinup model, graphic designer, set designer, hair and makeup artist, costumer and photo editor for my Pin-Up modeling site Donovan's Darlings (aka Kate's Pinups) since 2000 - The Pin-Up Portal keeping Pin-Up alive since 2004 - 21st Century Goddess Pin-Up private Makeover Photography since 2008! With my many years in the Pin-Up biz from the USA to the UK I have designed and built 11 photographic studios, 3 of which were offered as rental studios for other photographers, instructors and artists!

Moving back to my home town of Grass Valley, CA in 2015 I once again opened a studio and picked up the camera and appropriately named it Acacia Studios! My photography continues to specialize in Private Classic Vintage Pin-Up Makeover Photo-Shoots as well as professional portfolio shoots for Entertainers, Pin-Up,and Performers. Outside the studio my Mom and I offer a Popup Photo Studio with on-site 4x6 prints for local parties, fundraisers and events. I also have years of experience with Product Photography which can be shot in studio or on location.


During my Pin-Up career as Kate Donovan I have modeled and moved to the other side of the camera to photograph and coach/instruct several models, entertainers, performers, and photographers - some of which you may have seen on stage, in print or on my sites!

Adelina la Shay, Amaryllis, Andy Corfield, Anna fur Laxis, Ava Laine, Bella Besame, Bernie Dexter, Cerise la Fleur, Charly C, Cheeky Spoonfull ,Cherryfox, Clare, Coco Malone, Daggar Dames, Deadly Nightshade, Devil Doll, Dixie Martin, Dominic Halpin, Duke Wayward, Em Brulee, Fifi la Frills, Fiona, Freya Fox, Ginger la Rouge, Glorian Gray, Heather Sweet, Ivy Wilde, Juliette, Keeley, Kitten von Mew, Kitty Cointreau, Lana Landis, Lauren, Lethal Gem, Lexi Sexx, Lola Pops, Lola Valentine, Lolita Laytex, Marina Mae, May Hemm, Miss Cissy P, Miss Suzie Sequin, Mona Von Chrome, Peggy Soo, Poppy M Cherry, Ruby Rose, Sofire Rosa, Sophie, Starla Haze, Willow Blue - just to name a few ;)

Reviews by Models and Photographers -

"Being more or less a modelling novice, with only one photo shoot under my belt and not confident in my ability, meeting Kate was the best thing to happen to me. She instantly put me at ease in the unfamiliar surroundings of a studio, coaxing the best out of me as she could see the potential. Not only did she teach me how to pose and get the best out of myself, she taught me how important staging and lighting was in the process. Two years down the line and many a photo shoot later I can honestly say if it wasn't for Kate I wouldn't have the presence I do in front of the camera, which in turn has helped me on the stage, and I certainly wouldn't have the many wonderful photos of myself and the skills I need to bring out the essence of classic cheesecake pin-up that all girls have inside of them. I can't recommend Kate enough!" - Ivy Wilde, Pin-Up Model & Burlesque Performer, Manchester

"Kate's expertise means she doesn't just help the photographer get the best out of the model but also helps the model get the best out of herself. All shapes and sizes can be models in Kate's intimate studio, where each individual can learn the poses, angles and lighting which are the most flattering!! These techniques can then be transferred to other photo shoots, stage performances or even just to give you that bit more confidence being snapped on a night out with your mates!! Kate is professional, discreet, tactful and very skilled...as well as being an absolute babe!!" - Brazen Charade

"Kath and I would like to thank you for the training sessions we had with you, it has given us more ideas of how to pose our models appropriate to era, both the models and ourselves had a great time, we hope to spend some more time with you." - Chris & Kath Tykachi Photography

"I took part in 2 of Kate's instruction sessions and love every minute. As a model, I learned just as much as the photographers she was teaching. Kate taught us all the best pin-up poses in order to enphsise our every curve and make us look gorgeous in the images. She is a lovely bubbly teacher and makes everyone feel at ease. I would thoroughly recommend anyone to try one of her sessions!" - Cat aka Kitten Smitten

"Kate's passion for pin-up is enough to bring a tear to the eye.
Over the years she has honed her craft with such dedication and love both infront & behind of the camera so that every photograph sings of pure sexy pin-up magic and fun. She is a figurehead in the British pin-up scene not only as a respected artist but also as a tutor, sharing her tricks of the trade & her wisdom. She assures that her models are the happiest and most comfortable they can be, & makes sure when they go out to work for other shoots they know how to stay safe and protected from any situations that may arise with photographers who don't come up to scratch. Kate is truly a blessing to pin up. And even the shyest of women smile bigger and brighter on camera simply by hearing her laugh.x" - Heather Sweet

"I worked with Kate Donovan at the start of my modelling career. She taught me the art of pin up style posing and make up. The pictures were outstanding which portrays her skill for lighting and set design. It is clear that Kate is a master of this style of photography and is one of the best photographers in the UK and USA" - Sofire Rosa

"I was instantly put right at ease and felt very welcome. The dressing area was lovely and very glam. After I got into my dress and sorted out my hair and makeup we headed into the studio section. Kate was very helpful and informative and made me feel very well looked after, she had books for reference which i had a flick through, i was able to choose poses and general styles/looks that I wanted to try. Next came the posing, which though rather daunting at first, became a lot of fun, Kate is very passionate about pin up and you feel safe as she guides you on where to point your toes, how to position your hands and which facial expressions to pull. I can say i honestly learned a lot about pin up, and i had so much fun doing it, I would highly recommend popping along to one of the workshops, especially if pin up and the whole style surrounding it is a passion and something that interests you. You will be shocked at what you learn." - Duckie AlternativeModel Hartley

"Kate is a Wonderful teacher, she is very patient with an eye for all poses pin up style. She explained everything from how to sit and stand to working with props. Nothing was too much trouble for her. She does work both sides of the Camera so understands both Models and Photographers. I Learned so much from my Experience with Kate and would Highly recommend it to anyone considering pin up modelling or Photography." - Isabel Wilkie

“Kate is an absolute pleasure to work with. She makes shoots fun and enjoyable and makes you feel comfortable. She is very professional and helps you with posing and gives you direction. She is multi talented and can not only do photography but also hair, makeup and styling! I would recommend Kate to any model, especially if you want an enjoyable shoot with great results at the end. I hope to work with her again soon x” - Lethal Gem

“I Worked with Kate at Acacia Studio, a day filled with laughter, she is true joy to work with, absolutely passionate about what she is doing, Her skills and talent shine through on set, not only is she a talented photographer, but is skilled in the art of makeup, hair, set dressing, editing and has a great deal of knowledge when it comes to the world of vintage modeling, I hope to work with her again the future and look forward to seeing her work go from strength to strength, I highly recommend Kate and wish her all the luck in the world with her career.” - Manchester model