Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Brewer.
Hi Courtney, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have always been interested in photography ever since I was little. Both of my parents had film cameras that I always loved playing with. When I turned 10 we got our first point and shoot camera and you can bet it took it EVERYWHERE with me. When I was in high school I bought my first “big” camera and made my best friend Holly (who is now the BEST assistant/photograher and frequently travels with me) my first client. I took her senior photos and we had a ton of fun. After high school I dabbled in a lot of different photography – seniors,newborns, and families. But, I always knew in my heart I wanted to get into wedding photography. I met Dave and Dawn Estes of Estes Photography and became a photographer for them. I consider them a second set of parents – they taught me everything I know. I love them both so much.
As time went on I got to a point where I started looking for my own clients and wanted to lean into the destination/elopement side of wedding photography. I LOVE traveling – so what better way to combine my passion for photography and travel in one? My goal is to help couples create their perfect day-from permits to timelines and anything in between!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I think anyone who has started their own business or worked really hard at their passion knows it’s a lot of ups and downs along the way. I know I struggled with “imposter syndrome” and compared myself to a lot of other photographers (and still do sometimes) but, I always keep good people around me who encourage me to keep going and to never stop creating. I have met some wonder people and life long friends on this journey and wouldn’t change it for the world!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a traveling photographer who specializes in weddings big and small! Each one is special and I want to help couples create their dream day.
Im most proud of an image I captured of a couple under the Milky Way in Brookings.OR. (I can upload this image for you and would love to include this in the interview). This was captured using a technique called “long exposure” and a little bit of “light painting”.
I think what sets me apart is the experience I create for my couples—it’s about more than just photos. I’m really intentional about giving them the space to slow down, be present, and actually enjoy their day. Weddings can be overwhelming, but I’m there to help keep things grounded and focused on what really matters-the connection between them. I’m also really good at making people feel natural in front of the camera—even couples who swear they’re awkward end up laughing, moving, and just being themselves. I want the whole process to feel easy, meaningful, and fun from start to finish.
How do you think about luck?
I think luck has shown up in little ways—like the right people crossing my path at the right time, I met Dawn Estes on the side of the road when I had to move back into my parents house. She was outside with her Newfoundland dogs and my Newfoundland,Indy, was with me. I pulled over to say hello and showed her my puppy! It sparked a conversation that would turn into an opportunity during a hard time in my life. But honestly, i think luck shows up when you keep showing up even when you’re uncertain. I’m incredibly grateful for where I am today, and I don’t take it for granted. I’ve worked really hard to build something meaningful, but I also recognize and appreciate the lucky breaks that helped shape the journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.brewersstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brewerphotographystudio
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/brewerphotographystudio/
