READING TIME: 4 min 14 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 03/13/2025
UPDATED: 03/13/2025
Some photographers take pictures; others tell stories. For Courtney Simpson, photography is a powerful way to weave emotions, love, and life’s fleeting moments into timeless memories. From a childhood spent on a houseboat at the Jersey Shore to running a successful photography business while raising four children, her journey is nothing short of inspiring. With a camera in hand since the age of eight, Courtney’s passion for storytelling has only deepened over the years. We had the pleasure of speaking with her to explore the artistry, dedication, and heart behind her lens.
"My first experience with photography was when I was 8 years old. My grandfather bought me a Nikon film camera at a garage sale, and I never put the camera down from that point on," Courtney shares. That early spark turned into an unbreakable bond with the art of photography. She pursued courses in high school, later expanding her education through private training in the arts.
Today, as a single mother of four children and three dogs, she has instilled her passion into her family. "I have taught all of my children how to shoot film and digital," she says with pride. It’s a legacy of creativity she hopes they carry forward.
Though she has been capturing moments professionally for 13 years, Courtney’s photographic journey dates back to 2004. Over the years, she has honed a signature style that seamlessly blends editorial elegance with documentary storytelling. "I strive to tell love stories as they truly unfold while adding a refined, editorial touch," she explains.
Courtney’s work is a harmonious mix of raw emotion and intentional artistry. "Blending the raw, unscripted moments with an artful, intentional approach—it’s about preserving real emotions, stunning details, and timeless memories in a way that feels both natural and beautifully curated."
She describes her post-processing as a method of refinement rather than transformation. "My post-processing style is all about enhancing the natural beauty of the moment while staying true to the emotions and atmosphere of the day," she shares. Focusing on true-to-life skin tones, soft yet vibrant colors, and a film-inspired depth, Courtney ensures her images remain timeless.
For digital photography, Courtney relies on Nikon Z9s, while for film, she turns to the Pentax 645nii.
Her approach to editing is simple but meticulous. "I make subtle adjustments to composition and remove distractions if needed, but I never over-edit—my goal is to keep the images natural, emotive, and timeless, so they’ll feel just as beautiful decades from now as they do today."
A wedding isn’t just an event; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime story. Courtney takes time to connect deeply with her couples. "I approach every wedding with a mix of creativity, connection, and intention. I take the time to truly understand my couples—their personalities, love story, and vision—so I can document their day in a way that feels authentic to them."
She believes in balancing guidance with spontaneity. "I guide them when needed, but I also step back to let real moments unfold naturally. My goal is to create a comfortable, fun experience where they can be fully present while I capture their story with an editorial yet documentary feel—polished, but never forced."
Flexibility is key in wedding photography, and Courtney ensures her clients receive exactly what they need. "Every couple and wedding is unique, so I am always happy to tailor my offerings to meet their specific needs and vision."
Looking back, Courtney has words of wisdom for those just starting out: "Trust yourself and stay true to your vision. It’s easy to get caught up in trends or compare yourself to others, but your unique perspective is what will set you apart."
She emphasizes the importance of relationships and continuous learning. "Build genuine relationships with your clients, vendors, and industry peers, because connections are just as important as talent. Focus on delivering an incredible client experience, and your business will grow organically through word-of-mouth. Lastly, don’t be afraid to invest in education, equipment, and yourself. Every step, even the challenging ones, will shape you into the photographer and business owner you’re meant to be!"
For couples preparing for their wedding or a photoshoot, Courtney shares her top tips:
Be Yourself – "The best photos happen when you're comfortable and authentic. Embrace who you are, and don’t stress about perfection!"
Outfit Planning – "Choose outfits that make you feel confident and reflect your personality. Neutral, timeless tones photograph beautifully, but most importantly, wear something you love."
Trust the Process – "I’ll guide you when needed, but don’t overthink posing. The most beautiful moments happen naturally, so focus on each other and let the emotions unfold."
Consider the Details – "If it’s a wedding or engagement session, think about meaningful locations, props, or heirlooms that add personal touches to your story."
Relax & Have Fun – "This is your time to celebrate your love and connection. Play, laugh, and enjoy the moment—I’ll take care of capturing the magic!"
Traveling for love stories is one of Courtney’s favorite aspects of the job. "Yes! I absolutely love photographing destination weddings. There’s something so special about capturing love stories in breathtaking locations, whether it’s a coastal celebration, a romantic European escape, or an intimate mountaintop elopement."
While she finds beauty in every place, one destination holds a special place in her heart. "As for my favorite destination? It’s hard to choose just one! I’m always drawn to Italy with its natural beauty and rich character. But, anywhere my couples feel a deep connection is where I want to be, documenting their love in a way that reflects both the place and their story."
Courtney Simpson’s photography is more than just images—it’s about capturing love, connection, and the magic of the moment. Whether it’s through the lens of her Nikon Z9 or her beloved Pentax 645nii, she transforms emotions into timeless art. With a heart for storytelling and an eye for detail, Courtney’s work speaks for itself. If you’re looking for a photographer who will preserve your love story with honesty and elegance, look no further.
