Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Gould.
Courtney, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always loved photography. When I was young my father always took photos of me and my mother, and I clinged to it. He bought me my first 110 Ninja Turtle film camera and that’s where it began. I shot images my entire life, but really took it ‘seriously when I got to college at the age of 16. In college, I took many art classes, photography, design, film etc. I couldn’t stop – I had more credit hours than a degree but wanted more! I then met a mature photographer in the wedding industry and he gave me my first opportunity in professional photography as a second shooter in weddings. I loved it so much! Each event was so different and always filled with love! I learned so much and I realized the real-life of making this a career.
From there I sprouted out and found what I really enjoyed doing. I eventually got my first commercial gig with the Dallas Cowboys as a product photographer. I created two of their digital and print catalogs using my images of products and on model advertising. I truly loved this aspect of photography, having models, creating a story and feel, all while selling a product. I have been freelancing ever since that gig and working with various companies. I have shot everything from headshots to weddings/events, products and my personal favorite commercial/advertising and travel photography.
I am now an experienced designer /photographer working with brands in e-commerce such as the Oklahoma City Thunder, One World Trade Center Observatory, US Soccer, Indianapolis Motor Speedway/INDYCAR, Dr.Pepper, the Dallas Stars, etc. I design websites, e-commerce, advertising photography, and help with content creation. As for my personal life, my husband I love to travel, so this gives me another creative outlet to meet people, places and to capture them. I’m working on a side company now of these printed travel images. 😉 Stay tuned for that.
Has it been a smooth road?
Smooth? No. Its been very challenging at times. Not knowing where your next paycheck will come from, with bills to pay can be heavy. But, this only pushed me on to do more. I never wanted to work a job where I felt like I wasn’t using my talents! Having waited tables when I was young, I knew for a fact that’s not how I wanted to live my life. I made certain that I would do more with what I have been given. I am extremely thankful for the opportunities and talents that were given to me. And I always challenge myself with new obstacles.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I specialize in brand building, graphic design, photography, website design and content creation. I help brands build on what they created. I am most proud of the accomplishments of the people’s business’ I have worked with and where I see them now. I put my heart and soul into my work. I am very passionate about helping others, and I believe it shows with my work and dedication to them, which can set me apart from others.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
The industry is constantly evolving and to be sure of where that is going in the next 10 years is hard to say. I do believe true talent, and sticking with the original formats, in ex. the film will never go out of style, but yet, are a classic piece into the rawness of some art. I do think that we’re living in some great times, with huge involvement in technology. But at the end of the day, people will always need creatives.
Contact Info:
- Website: courtneygould.com
- Phone: 2144056111
- Email: me@courtneygould.com
- Instagram: @courtney_gould
Image Credit:
COURTNEY GOULD
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