Biography

Courtney Kiefer is an editorial and commercial photographer based in Central Florida. Born and raised in Iowa, Courtney relocated to Florida in 2011 to attend the Southeast Center for Photographic Studies where she graduated with an A.S. in Photographic Technology from Daytona State College with High Honors in 2013. She subsequently graduated from the University of Central Florida with a B.S. in Photography in 2021.

Often described as a versatile photographer, Courtney utilizes a clean and vibrant style to frame an optimistic narrative showcasing human expression and interaction, including every interwoven detail. This is conveyed through her compelling, authentic, and relatable images. Courtney’s passion, strong work ethic, engaging personality, and eye for detail allow for positive collaborations with clients and creative professionals to arrive at a product that exceeds expectations. Her positive attitude is contagious as she generates an enjoyable atmosphere both on location and in studio.

Courtney currently works as a freelance photographer and photography assistant in a variety of roles. She completed a Professional Photography Internship at Disney's Yellow Shoes Creative Group producing photographic content for worldwide audiences. She also spent over five years as the Marketing & Communications sole Photographer/Videographer at Seminole State College of Florida, acting as the creative force behind their photographic content. Courtney’s adaptability and congeniality enabled her to successfully balance simultaneous projects ranging from the creation of new visuals to managing a public asset library of over 79,000 images.

Her work has been published in worldwide public relations. marketing, and advertising campaigns through various mediums and she has been recognized through awards by elite organizations for outstanding photo and video content in both individual and collaborative projects.

Courtney strongly believes in teamwork, continuing education, and networking. She is an active member of numerous professional organizations. She also enjoys volunteering as both a photographer and speaker in K-12 and college classes as well as for nonprofit organizations.

On a personal note, she has been happily married for 15 years, has a beautiful daughter, a love of animals and rescue opportunities, a passion for health and wellness, and a drive to uplift others through support and kindness. She aims for her photography and relationships to spread joy and have a positive impact in the world, whether large or small.


Education

B.S. Photography - University of Central Florida (2021)

A.A. - Daytona State College (2015)

A.S. Photographic Technology - Daytona State College (2013)

University of Northern Iowa (2005)


Organizations & Memberships

The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS)

University Photographers' Association of America (UPAA)

American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP)

National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)

Professional Photographers of America (PPA)

KelbyOne & The National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP)

Peter Hurley's Headshot Crew


Published Work

  • Disney Parks, Experiences and Products
  • Indianapolis Zoo
  • Seminole State College of Florida
  • Valencia College
  • City of Altamonte Springs
  • Getty Images
  • Orlando Sentinel
  • WFTV
  • ABC
  • NBC
  • Yahoo News
  • Daily Mail
  • The Business Journals
  • Orlando Magazine
  • Southern Living
  • People
  • Essence
  • Tennis
  • Travel + Leisure
  • Hollywood Life
  • Entertainment Tonight
  • Insider
  • Teen Vogue
  • Life & Style
  • Yahoo Entertainment

Individual Accomplishments

Gallery Exhibition - Kitchen Savior - Southeast Museum of Photography - 2021

Guru Award Finalist - Creative Photography Category - Photoshop World - 2019

Guru Award Finalist - Portrait Photography Category - Photoshop World - 2019

Bronze Paragon Award - Photography- Unmanipulated Category - National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) - 2017

Best Fall Portraits - Leonard's - 2013

Collaborative Accomplishments

Gold Medallion Award - Viewbook Category - National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) - 2018

Gold Medallion Award - Newsletter Category - National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) - 2018

Award of Excellence - A.A. Recruitment Campaign - Association of Florida Colleges (AFC) - 2018

Bronze Telly Award - Video - 2017

Bronze Telly Award - Video - 2017

Gold Medallion Award - Viewbook Category - National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) - 2016

First Place Award of Excellence - Viewbook/Recruitment Piece Category - Association of Florida Colleges (AFC) - 2016


References

Recommendations can be viewed through LinkedIn

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