Today we’d like to introduce you to Cody Kurtz.
Cody, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The first time I remember using a camera was back in 2007 when I joined my high school friends to start making dumb videos to pass time during the school year. I took a basic Photoshop class my senior that planted the creative seed that would eventually bear fruit.
Fast forward 2 years and I’m a part of a ministry out in East Texas focused on music and leadership. I had the opportunity to travel the country as a part of a youth conference worship team so I saved up a few hundred dollars to buy my first camera, a Canon T3i with 2 lenses. I was SO hype to finally have my own camera and spent a ridiculous amount of time on YouTube just trying to learn how to do…basically anything with a camera. So for 2 years, that’s what I did! We traveled to just about 45 different states and played in 27 different arenas across the US. That’s where I got most of my hands-on training; I would meet bands and speakers during the conference, take photos both onstage and backstage, learn how to interact with VIP guests, plan where I’m going to be during what parts of the concerts, etc.
Eventually, my time there came to an end but I didn’t want to stop pursuing photography. I had some friends who were engaged so I offered to be their photographer. That was back in August of 2014. I fell in love with the chaos and beauty of weddings then and there. The following January, I did a social media push for a heavily discounted price for out of state weddings which eventually turned into my entire year booked up.
Since 2014, I’ve covered almost 100 weddings in 20 states and 3 different countries. Through these years I’ve learned more and more that what I do is more than just a job to get a paycheck. It’s an invitation into one of the most precious days that a couple might ever experience. These moments that are captured will be shared from generation to generation. That thought usually terrifies new photographers but it gets me INSANELY excited because I know what I’m doing is going to make an impact 10, 20, even 50 or 100 years from now. It’s a huge responsibility but it’s an incredible opportunity. I love what I do and I wouldn’t want to do anything else for a living!
Has it been a smooth road?
Oh gosh no. I’ve learned a LOT through trial and error. I had about $10,000 worth of equipment stolen early on in my career and my insurance didn’t cover it. I almost quit as a whole. My wife and I had gotten married less than a year when that happened so it was a huge financial hit. I slowly acquired used gear but kept building my wedding base. I didn’t really tell many people which I regret in hindsight. (Community, even if just online, can be a huge support system)
It’s also been tough for me to balance work life with family life. I started my business and family all at the same time. I’ve always been one to sacrifice work if that means having a healthy family dynamic…but that’s when I get super behind on work! I’ve learned that checklists and goals are going to be my best friend when it comes to self-motivation.
I believe most creatives struggle with comparison too. “Why can’t I do that” or “Gosh if only…” are common thoughts I have to destroy before I let it affect my work flow and ethic. Early on, I wrote out “Comparison Is The Killer Of Creativity” because it’s so true. Knowing who I am in my own identity (it’s not what I DO but who I am) has made all the difference. I’m not defined by my work but it can be a really rad opportunity to connect with others!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Cody Kurtz Photography – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I’m primarily a wedding and engagement photography business that focuses on destination weddings and elopements! That’s where my heart and passion is. I’ve been told that I’m known for the authenticity that flows out of my work because of the intimate relationships I build with my couples. That’s my favorite part of the process; grabbing a cup of coffee to talk about life, hearing about their dreams and passions, etc. It gives me insight as a wedding photographer and as a friend.
I’m always overjoyed when my couples get their photos back and they’re STOKED about them! Little notes of encouragement or a thank you card makes my heart so happy. Knowing that what I do is cherished by others means more than words can say.
I’d say what sets me apart from other wedding photographers is really my mentality during a wedding day. It’s THEIR day and I want to treat it like that. My goal is for it to not be “oh he’s the photographer” but more of “dude CODY’S HERE!” Less of a wedding photographer, more of a friend with a camera capturing your most precious moments. I don’t want to fabricate or manipulate anything either. I want to capture the day as it unfolds, all the little moments (whether awesome or totally awkward) so nothing goes forgotten.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love how inspired I get when I go downtown and the culture surrounding the arts. There’s so much opportunity at our fingertips and its there for the taking. I’ve noticed that so much of it comes from relationships and genuine hearts for people and community. You can walk almost anywhere and BOOM, inspiration strikes.
THE HEAT. OH MY WORD. Texas summer weddings are pretty rough unless they’re indoors. I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to the 100 degree weddings though.
Pricing:
- Average Wedding Investment – $4,500+
- Elopement Packages start at $2,500
- Headshots/Portrait Sessions – $200/hr
Contact Info:
- Address: 322 N Mill St
Lewisville, TX 75057 - Website: www.codykurtzphotography.com
- Phone: 570-337-1450
- Email: ckurtzphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codykurtzphoto/
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
