Courtland took photojournalism in college after leaving the army and found a love for wedding photography. As an award-winning Sacramento photographer, Courtland now uses his photographic skills to capture human connections and real moments. Courtland was interviewed to gain his perspective on wedding photography and provide his community with his unique insights.
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What is in Courtland’s Gear Bag
Sony Alpha a9 II
16-28mm f/2.8
35mm f/1.4
50mm f/1.8
85mm f/1.4
Godox AD200 – Similar to Flashpoint Version
Godox V1c is similar to Flashpoint Version
Now, let’s move on to the actual interview!
Courtland W. Wilson Interview
What is your favourite camera lens?
The versatility of the 35mm focal range is what I like most. It’s great for portraits, landscapes, macros and story-telling.
What is your experience as a photographer so far? How did you get started?
Since 2013, I have been photographing weddings. During my Army service, I used a point-and-shoot to capture my memories in Germany and Iraq. It wasn’t till I went to college that I started taking photography seriously. After watching the documentary “War Photographer”, about James Nachtwey, I wanted to become a war photojournalist. After majoring in journalism, I discovered wedding photography and was hooked. It is more important to me that I document the best moments of people’s lives than their worst.
What is your style of shooting and editing?
It was important to me to create work that you could not recreate using your cell phone. MagMod’s Youtube channel was a great resource for me to learn how to use flash.
What makes you different from other photographers?
My clients and I have an intimate relationship. In the wedding, I would like to be seen as a close friend who has a camera rather than “the photographer”. My approach is fun, friendly and personal from the moment we first meet. I also edit differently than the majority of photographers in Northern California.
What are your favourite photographers?
Victor Lax, Two Mann, Chad Winstead, Megan Allan, Christian Cardona, Jesse and Moira LaPlante, Jorge Romero, Jorge Satre, James Nachtwey, Chris Hondros. Tim Hetherington.
What are your key success factors in the industry?
Take action and be focused.
What type of photography do you enjoy most, besides weddings?
I served in Iraq from 2006/2009. In 2006/07, I was in Iraq. I am just as captivated by it as with wedding photography.