We were lucky to catch up with Courtnee Waiters recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Courtnee, you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?
My generosity likely comes from a combination of my personal values, upbringing, cultural influences, and life experiences. As a pure hearted loving man, I have been shaped by the values instilled in me by my family, community, and cultural background.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Being a photographer in Memphis and owning my own brand, Crowned Visions Studio, is an exhilarating journey that constantly fuses my passion for visual storytelling with the rich tapestry of this vibrant city. Every day behind the lens is a chance to capture the essence of Memphis, its people, and its culture in all their diverse forms.
In a city as dynamic as Memphis, my camera becomes a bridge that connects me with the heartbeats of the community. From the colorful street art that adorns the walls to the soulful music that echoes through Beale Street, I am privileged to freeze these moments in time. Each photograph taken is a testament to the stories waiting to be shared — stories of resilience, creativity, and the undeniable spirit of a city that has left an indelible mark on history.
As the founder of Crowned Visions Studio, I have the honor of not only documenting the lives of individuals but also contributing to the visual narrative of Memphis. My photography isn’t just about capturing smiles; it’s about immortalizing the aspirations and dreams of the people who call this city home. It’s about collaborating with clients to turn their visions into reality, and in doing so, adding to the collective visual legacy of Memphis.
Navigating the intricate balance between authenticity and creativity is a thrilling challenge. Whether I’m shooting portraits, events, or the cityscape itself, I’m constantly seeking that unique perspective that sets Crowned Visions Studio apart. It’s about capturing the raw emotions, the unscripted moments, and the hidden stories that make each image a work of art in its own right.
Being a photographer in Memphis means embracing the fusion of history and modernity, culture and innovation. It’s about celebrating the past while capturing the evolution of this city into the future. Through my lens, I am not just a witness, but an active participant in the ongoing narrative of Memphis — a city that continues to inspire, surprise, and captivate me with its endless stories waiting to be told.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. **Technical Proficiency:** Understanding the technical aspects of photography is fundamental. This includes mastering your camera’s settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to control exposure and depth of field. Knowledge of lighting techniques, composition rules, and post-processing software is also essential to produce high-quality images. Technical proficiency ensures that you can consistently capture well-exposed and sharp photographs in various conditions.
2. **Creative Vision:** Creativity is at the heart of photography. Developing a unique and discerning creative vision sets you apart from others. This involves seeing ordinary scenes in extraordinary ways, selecting interesting subjects, experimenting with different angles and perspectives, and understanding how to use elements like color, texture, and contrast to convey emotions or messages through your photos. A strong creative vision enables you to tell compelling stories and evoke emotions through your work.
3. **Effective Communication and Interpersonal Skills:** Building relationships and effectively communicating with your subjects, clients, and collaborators is crucial. Whether you’re working with clients for portraits, documenting events, or collaborating with other professionals, your ability to make people feel comfortable and understood can greatly influence the outcome of your photographs. Being able to direct and pose subjects, capture candid moments, and convey your ideas clearly ensures that you can create images that resonate with your audience and meet your clients’ expectations.
While these three skills are foundational, being a photographer is a multi-faceted role that can require additional skills depending on your specialization and the context in which you work. Constantly honing these skills and being open to learning and adaptation is key to thriving in the dynamic field of photography.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
Having a supportive mother throughout my photography journey has been an invaluable source of encouragement and inspiration. Her unwavering belief in my passion has propelled me forward, enabling me to chase my creative aspirations with confidence and determination.
Her support has extended beyond mere words; it’s been the backbone of my journey. From the early days of learning the technical intricacies of a camera to the moments of doubt when my creativity wavered, she has stood by me, offering guidance and a listening ear. Her belief in my abilities has instilled in me a sense of self-assurance that continues to fuel my growth as a photographer.
I am profoundly grateful for the moments she spent patiently posing for my experiments and the times she joined me on photo excursions, exploring new landscapes and capturing life’s fleeting moments together. Her involvement has not only strengthened our bond but also enhanced my understanding of the stories that can be woven through photography.
As a black man pursuing his dreams, her support has taken on an even deeper significance. In a world where representation and opportunities can be limited, her encouragement has bolstered my determination to challenge stereotypes and showcase the narratives that deserve to be heard. Her belief in my vision has empowered me to create a space where my voice as a photographer can resonate authentically.
In the tapestry of my photography journey, my mother’s support forms a vibrant thread that weaves through every frame I capture. Her belief in my potential has illuminated my path and transformed challenges into opportunities. With her by my side, I look forward to continuing my growth, capturing the world through my lens, and making both her and myself proud.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.crownedvisionsstudio.com
- Instagram: @crowned_visions_studio
- Facebook: Crowned visions studio
- Youtube: Crowned Visions Studio
