Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cortland Hunter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Cortland, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Often the greatest growth and the biggest wins come right after a defeat. Other times the failure serves as a lesson that’s helpful later in your journey. We’d appreciate if you could open up about a time you’ve failed.

I used to look for validation in spaces that I did not fit into. There was an instance where I presented a photography print at an exhibition in my college town. The proceeds went to a local cause. I was one of two photographers. When the time came, I presented my piece to the crowd like I was asked to. There was no fanfare. Not many people came up to me to ask questions. My piece did not sell on the day of the show, but its future owner reached out to me later. My confidence took a big hurt that day. I did not have a “name” in that creative community. My mistake was trying to make myself fit in. I had to leave my comfort zone and go find my people. I couldn’t just expect them to come to me.

This was a lesson in not selling myself short and holding my own in a space with other artists. I had to learn that if there wasn’t room at the table for me, I would have to create my own space. That is what I have been doing ever since. Community comes before competition.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My art is photography. Since I was a teenager, I have pursued every opportunity that I could. In college, I submitted photographs to indie publications; one of which I helped edit. I presented and sold prints. I would assist friends with their own projects. In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, I was looking for a sense of community and found it. I knew some people who founded a local photography club. This led to events with other organizations both in North and South Carolina. Like a lot of people, I use social media as a tool to promote myself and build community. This hasn’t been a one man show. I’ve had plenty of help and support.

I provide a variety of services. Portraits are what I specialize in. I like to capture moments both posed and spontaneous. It started with headshots and modeling portfolios. This has expanded into weddings, events, and branding for business owners. I use both film and digital equipment. Film photography allows me to take risks and focus more on what I am photographing. I always bring at least two cameras and a bag of lenses to a shoot.

I use different environments whether it be a studio, an outdoor location, or, in some cases, a client’s home. Flexibility is everything to me. One of my best sessions was staged in a client’s home before they moved out of it. It is rewarding to capture those memories. What I want potential clients to know is that I want their session to be a collaboration. I am always open to new ideas, because they help me grow.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Portraits allow people to see themselves in a new light. I love seeing the joy it brings. Seeing one of my photographs in print, or featured on the web is satisfying knowing that I created it. Being a creative allows me to be completely in control of what I am doing. Photography is my way of showing others how I see the world. Photography has also given me a great sense of comfort over the years. It has helped me to relieve stress and express myself when I did not know how. My art has given me a voice that I did not know I had.

The relationships that I form are very important to me. A favorite past time of mine is putting other photographers in front of the lens. If I have an idea, I already know who can help make my vision a reality. This is why having a community is so important. It gets them out of their comfort zone.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

We creatives experience burn out just like anyone else can. It can get overwhelming balancing gigs and getting tasks done. There is constant pressure to build good client relations. We must be careful not to push ourselves too far creatively. I have had times when I was more passionate about some projects than others. There have been times when I was not very inspired, and not creating very much.

Sometimes my competitive side takes over. Like a lot of us, I have grieved missed opportunities. I often find myself getting too much validation from clicks and likes. It reminds me to center myself, to remember why I make art, and who I make it for.

A photo walk with a friend is a good remedy. Brainstorming sessions with like-minded people help tremendously. Slowing down and practicing some self-care goes a long way.     

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortlandh/
• Email: [email protected]