Curtis Copeland's photostream  

Curtis Copeland is an international wedding and “life moments” photographer.
Acclaimed for his work in photojournalism, wedding, portrait and maternity images, he has been published in newspaper, magazine, web and other periodicals. His attention to detail, commitment to excellence and ability to consistently deliver world-class images set him apart from others. His fly-on-the-wall photojournalism techniques, stylish portraits, and powerful images make him among the most well known in South Florida. Curtis demands the most from himself and his work. This isn’t a just a job – it is a lifestyle.

Curtis has a passion to capture life’s most important moments in print. He has a gift of making people feel comfortable and relaxed. Laughter is often the language of a photo shoot.

The goal is to deliver world-class photography of your special memories. From the emotions and details of your special day, to capturing your character in a portrait session – Curtis has the skills to tell your story photographically.

In his own words:

“My photography background comes from photojournalism. Getting the shot in the middle of a hectic situation was the norm. Whether shooting in Israel, Guatemala, Romania, and various locations in the United States during disaster relief operations or community impact projects, there was no time to “pose”. I had to get the shot. This taught me how to sense people’s emotional reactions. There is timing in capturing images that impact. All of us have a rhythm of feelings we show in our body language and expressions. Having years of experience helps me to capture those moments for posterity.”
“The first experience with photography was in high school. I still remember the smell of the chemicals used to produce film images in the lab. It was so fascinating. Since then, it became more and more of a hobby, until people started asking me to take pictures for them. And, they would pay me for it! My style has changed, the technology has changed, my waist size has changed (not smaller… ahem) – but my passion for the field has continued to grow. Every day I seek to learn something new about my craft.”
Working with people is a blessing! There is no greater joy than encouraging an individual have a genuinely good time during a photo shoot. One of my main goals is to ensure the photographic experience is fun and uplifting. Whether at a wedding, corporate event, engagement shoot, portrait session, maternity shoot – these take distinct people skills. My distant background comes from management and people development. Those years taught me to find each individual’s unique strength and bring it out. Create an environment where their best can grow. The same is true when photographing people. The surroundings, atmosphere and our interaction must draw out their real personalities. That is the core role of a good photographer: to highlight the beauty, character and uniqueness of a person.
Whether blending in at weddings, parties and events, or getting tired children to smile for the camera, I can make you and your family feel comfortable and relaxed. And, we will have a little fun in the process!”
My commitment is to provide top quality photography within the framework of a professional and reliable business with someone you can trust.

Style:

My style is a blend of photojournalism and organic creative

When shooting, I am always looking for color palettes, backgrounds, layers textures and contrasts which enhance the image. This requires a lot of physical work. Often, I have to get down on the ground or climb on top of tables, chairs or other objects to get the right perspective. Continually, I am moving around to get various facets of the event. All the while, interacting with the client and assistants. It is energizing!

For inspiration, I often look outside the wedding industry. For several hours each week I search the web for images to spark creativity, such as, movies, sports, marketing, wildlife, fashion, Flickr, architectural, abstract and such. Also, light is fascinating. There is much time spent in my head examining light. Morning light, evening light, cloudy light, sunlight, shade, light paterns, warm light, cool light – watching light interact with objects and people. It probably sounds strange, but this is how I often daydream… (maybe too much MSG in the Chinese food!)

My ‘recipe’ for images that move people’s hearts combines:

1. Connecting with the client
2. Passion expressed in art
3.Great gear.

The outcome must be uncompromising in quality and creativity.”