Today we’d like to introduce you to Cortland Hunter.
Hi Cortland, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I have been taking pictures all my life. I started with film, and now it’s in demand again. Growing up, my parents let me tinker with the family camera. I moved on to disposables and instant cameras. My first dedicated camera was a point-and-shoot digital in 2009. Finally, I upgraded to a DSLR in 2014. I haven’t been without some device since. At first, I was self-taught. As a teenager, I discovered photograph art by focusing on composition. I captured whatever caught my eye. Portraits quickly became my favorite thing to capture. In college, I took a digital photography class. I learned how to use editing programs, meet deadlines for clients, and and how to present my work at art shows properly. My earliest “clients” were classmates. I also performed editing duties for our in-house art/literature publication during those years. In 2020, I started participating in networking events where my portraiture skills flourished. I became more involved in my local art scene and have learned a lot from creatives in my community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has been up and down. It took me a long time to see the value of my work. Putting oneself out there is not an easy task. I had to come out of my shell. I still have to be reminded not to sell myself short. Some of the best advice I’ve ever gotten is, “Show up as you belong.”
Mental health is something that I have struggled with in recent years. It took many rejections to get a yes, especially when submitting work to contests, shows, and publications. My most painful experiences have inspired some of my best creations. One could say that I wear my heart on my sleeve. I want my work to be a reflection of that. Pictures tell stories.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I went to school for literature and creative writing, two other lifelong passions of mine. Right out of college, I began as a reading tutor with a national organization. That was when I discovered that I loved mentoring children. I am now an after-school teacher working with elementary school students. I also write freelance for mental health websites to share my experiences with a broad audience. Slowly but surely, I am getting my photography business off of the ground. I have photographed weddings, family sessions, and modeling sessions. I suppose I am already becoming known for my editing style and use of color. Some of my biggest influences are film photographers. I enjoy using “dated” tones. Earth tones are my favorite color palate to use.
We’d love to hear what you think about risk-taking.
Taking risks creatively and professionally is worth it. Within the last year, I have ventured outside my comfort zone. My photography has taken me to different parts of the state. I have formed new connections that I wouldn’t have if I didn’t take that step.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortlandh/
