Wally, Tammy, Summer, Dustin, and Ashlie are the core of the Orona Photography family operation.

© Bailey Ivey, StallioneSearch

By Leann Noguera, StallioneSearch

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK–APRIL 5, 2026–Dustin Orona, the face behind Orona Photography, announced earlier this week that he will be stepping away from his role as the official track photographer at Remington Park and Lone Star Park following the conclusion of the Spring 2026 meets.

Orona’s work has become synonymous with Quarter Horse racing across the region, built over a 25-year career defined by relationships, consistency, and a commitment to preserving the sport’s most meaningful moments.

Born in Nebraska, Orona moved to Oklahoma in the third grade after his dad retired from riding at Canterbury Park in Minnesota. After high school, he began studying journalism at Oklahoma State University, where he landed an internship during his sophomore year with Reed Palmer Photography.

He began in the office handling day-to-day operations under the then-lead photographer, Justin James, but, under Palmer’s mentorship, he quickly expanded his role. Orona traveled to multiple other racetracks, including Louisiana Downs, Lone Star Park, and Ellis Park, during a pivotal time in the industry as photography transitioned from film to digital.

Louisiana Downs and Lone Star Park were already moving in that direction, allowing Orona to gain hands-on experience with emerging technology before bringing that knowledge back to Remington Park.

Climbing the ranks, Orona continued to expand his experience. Before eventually taking over the business, he had the opportunity to shoot during Derby Week after Reed Palmer secured the Churchill Downs photography contract, giving Orona exposure to one of racing’s biggest stages.

In 2007, Palmer sold his Remington Park photography operation to Orona, where he took over as the official track photographer. In 2014, he expanded that role by taking over the Lone Star Park contract as well, and has managed both operations ever since.

Over the years, Orona built more than a business — he built a family operation.

His mother, Tammy, serves as office manager. His father, Wally, works as an assistant photographer and resident comic relief. His sister, affectionately known as “The Boss,” contributes behind the scenes, while his longtime girlfriend, Ashlie Battaglia, is a steady presence in the office, helping wherever needed.

The photo office has become a staple of the racetrack experience. Horsemen and fans alike stop in not just for photos, but for conversation, laughter, and a sense of belonging. Dustin is known for being a tremendous cook, often sharing that talent by bringing food to the office for everyone to enjoy.

Reflecting on his career, Orona expressed deep gratitude to the horsemen, organizations, and individuals who supported his journey. He credited Reed Palmer for opening the door and thanked Global Gaming Solutions, Remington Park, Lone Star Park, OQHRA, TRAO, TTA, TQHA, and countless others throughout the industry.

He also emphasized his respect for jockeys and acknowledged the often-overlooked role of bookkeepers who help keep the industry running.

As Orona established himself at Remington Park and later Lone Star Park, he began building a team around him, continuing the mentorship model that helped launch his own career.

Among those he recognized for contributing to the growth of his business were Amber Montgomery, Gedda Quinonez, Maira May Velasco, Lawrence Sanchez, Lance Moler, Aubrey Garcia, Bailey Ivey, Louanne Wainscott, Sierra Adams, Bailey Ortiz, and Kris Davis. While noting the list could never be complete, Orona described the overwhelming support as a testament to how fortunate his team has been.

Beyond photography, the Orona office has become a gathering place — one where customers are welcomed with more than just finished photos. It is a place built on relationships, humor, and shared experiences.

Orona encourages horsemen and fans to continue stopping by through the remainder of the meet, where familiar faces like Tammy, Summer, Ashlie, and Wally will continue to greet visitors as they have for years.

His announcement reflects a career transition that extended well beyond photography, having made a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him.

Louanne Wainscott reflected on Orona’s influence on her career and life.

“Working with Dustin Orona Photography has been one of the greatest chapters of my life,” Wainscott said. “Dustin gave me my start in racetrack photography, and when I received his call, my heart truly broke. For six years, he not only taught me the craft but trusted me to help run his business at Remington Park and Lone Star Park — something I will forever be grateful for.”

She described the operation as more than a workplace.

“This isn’t just the end of a job; it’s the closing of a chapter filled with passion, dedication, and memories that will last a lifetime,” she said. “Dustin didn’t just take photos — he made sure every moment for the horsemen was captured the right way, every single time.”

Wainscott also pointed to the unique culture inside the office.

“The photo office was never just about picking up pictures. It was a place to hang out, laugh, and be part of something special. Some days, you’d walk in, and Dustin would have cooked a potluck for everyone — that’s just who he is.”

While recognizing the significance of the moment, she remains confident that Orona’s story is far from finished.

“I know this chapter is ending, but one thing I’m certain of — this isn’t the end of Dustin Orona. Bigger things are ahead.”

Bailey Ivey echoed that sentiment, crediting Orona for opening the door early in her career.

“Dustin was the first person to give me an opportunity behind the camera at the racetrack,” Ivey said. “That chance led me to where I am today, and I remain deeply grateful for the trust and encouragement he showed me.”

As the Spring 2026 meets draw to a close, Orona’s presence will be missed at two of the sport’s premier venues. For many, his lens didn’t just capture winners — it documented the heartbeat of the racetrack. With 25 years behind him, Orona now turns the page toward what comes next.

As Orona himself put it, “In 25 years, I’ve never worked a day in my life. It’s not work if you love what you do.”

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