Story & Lesson Highlights with Brandon Scott of Monterey

We recently had the chance to connect with Brandon Scott and have shared our conversation below.

Brandon, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Most mornings are pretty relaxed. I usually wake up around 8, make coffee, and take a little time to ease into the day. I’ll check emails and messages, catch up on any client inquiries, and look over my to-do list. If I’m not shooting, I’m usually editing photos or working on blog posts and social media content. I like to get most of my focused work done before lunch, since that’s when I feel the most clear-headed. It’s not glamorous, but it keeps everything moving.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Brandon Scott. I’m a wedding photographer based in California, and I focus on capturing honest, emotional, and artful images for couples who really care about photography. My approach leans heavily on storytelling—quiet, cinematic moments over stiff poses. I shoot both digital and film, and I’m drawn to real connection, interesting light, and scenes that feel timeless.

I’ve been doing this for over a decade now (15th wedding season!), and what keeps it interesting is that every couple, every wedding, every location is different. Lately I’ve been exploring more personal work on film and pushing myself creatively outside of weddings too. At the core of everything I do is a love for photography and a respect for how powerful images can be—especially when they feel true.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think what breaks the bonds between people, more often than not, is a lack of presence. When we stop paying attention—when we stop listening, assuming good intent, or showing up for the small moments—it creates distance, sometimes without us even noticing. Miscommunication and unmet expectations usually follow.

What restores those bonds is the opposite: presence, honesty, and shared experiences. Sometimes it’s a long conversation. Sometimes it’s just showing up, again and again, even quietly. I see that a lot through the lens—people finding their way back to each other through touch, laughter, or just standing still together in a moment. Photography reminds me that connection doesn’t always look big or dramatic. Sometimes it’s subtle—but it’s always there if you’re looking for it.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d probably say: “You don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Just keep showing up, doing the work, and staying curious. It’ll lead somewhere good—even if you can’t see it yet.”

And maybe also: “Buy the nicer lens sooner. You’ll end up there anyway.”

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
I believe that people can feel when they’re truly seen—even in a photograph. There’s something intangible that comes through when a moment is real and unforced, and I think that recognition goes both ways: the person being photographed feels it, and the person viewing the image does too. I can’t prove it, but it’s something I’ve felt again and again in my work.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
Maybe that it was all about aesthetics. I care deeply about composition, light, and tone—but underneath that, what drives me is emotion and truth. The photos that stick with me most aren’t always the prettiest—they’re the ones that feel the most real. If people only see the surface style, they might miss the quiet intention behind it: to make something honest that lasts.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Brandon Scott Photo Co

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