Artist Statement


In this series of photographs, my project is to honor and illuminate the "pillars of the community" of Nacogdoches. These business owners, artists, and everyday individuals are dedicated to working inside the spaces we call home. By capturing environmental portraits and documentary-style moments showing them working or sitting in their spaces, I aim to capture these subjects in formal portraits and action shots—working, creating, and contributing to the lifeblood of their community.

Each image showcases the individuality of the person and the essence of their environment, making pictures that are both personal and informative. These photographs are meant to showcase the character and personality that few people see. This project allows me to see these people and learn about their stories while capturing a moment in their more significant stories. 

Nacogdoches is my home, and the people I’ve met through my work with local stores have inspired and supported me to improve every day. These pillars of their community have supported me through my work, helping me make connections.

This series is a tribute to the people who make Nacogdoches what it is and a reminder that the people behind the work matter and their stories deserve to be seen.

Person in overalls relaxes on wooden chair inside rustic room with vintage pot-belly stove in background.
Traditional craftsman in denim overalls works intently with woodworking tools inside rustic log cabin workshop.
A musician in denim overalls plays mandolin while seated next to an antique potbelly stove in a rustic cabin setting.
Craftsman carefully examines violin in traditional wooden workshop with stringed instruments hanging above.
A person wearing glasses sits at a red counter wearing black clothing and gold bracelets in a restaurant setting.
A person in glasses and black clothing stands behind a large bin filled with pink or red minced meat in an industrial kitchen.
Person in black outfit and glasses scoops popcorn into a large container at a food service venue.
A person in a bright yellow patterned shirt sits at a desk in front of a wall of picture frame moldings.
Custom framing craftsman in bright yellow patterned shirt works at counter with picture frames displayed on wall behind.
Picture taker stands at a workstation with a bright yellow patterned shirt against a wall of angled frame samples.
A person in a yellow patterned shirt works at a framing counter with decorative frame samples displayed on the wall behind.
Someone wearing glasses and a patterned short-sleeve shirt stands with their arms crossed, smiling at the camera.
A person relaxes in a cream-colored armchair wearing a patterned shirt and boots in a modern living room setting.
Person in a patterned Hawaiian shirt reads a book while relaxing in a beige upholstered armchair with their feet up.
Two people sort through trading cards and merchandise at a gaming store with CDs and merchandise displays in the background.

CODY GILL

📍 Nacogdoches, TX

📧 codygillphotography@gmail.com

📞 (936) 232-6404


Professional Summary

Creative and dedicated photographer with over six years of experience in portrait, sports, and event photography. Skilled in post-processing, client relations, and visual storytelling. Committed to delivering high-quality imagery while continually exploring innovative techniques. Currently pursuing a degree in Photography with the goal of expanding a successful freelance business.


Experience

Cody Gill Photography – Owner

August 2018 – Present | Nacogdoches, TX

Manage and promote personal photography business across social media platforms.

Deliver professional photo sessions for over 150 clients.

Apply advanced editing techniques including color correction, cropping, and retouching.

Plan and execute unique visual concepts using creative compositions and lighting.


House of Photography – Contract Photographer

Nacogdoches, TX

Conduct photoshoots for local sports teams and school events.

Organize and archive images for future printing and digital use.

Use lighting setups to ensure quality images in various indoor/outdoor conditions.


Nacogdoches ISD – Contract Photographer/Videographer

Nacogdoches, TX

Capture events for the ESL Department, supporting parent engagement through visual media.

Create informative video content for the school district’s YouTube channel aimed at Spanish-speaking families.


Stone Fort Yearbook – Head Photographer

August 2022 – October 2023 | Nacogdoches, TX

Captured and curated a wide range of event and sports photography for yearbook publication.

Organized large volumes of images for editorial planning and layout integration.


Education

Stephen F. Austin State University

B.F.A. in Photography (Expected Graduation: 2026)

Actively developing skills in visual arts, image theory, and advanced photographic techniques.

Goal: Expand freelance photography business and pursue a Master’s degree in the field.


Awards & Recognition

1st Place, Visit Nacogdoches Photo Contest (Visitor Center Feature)

Finalist, East Texas Traveler Photo Contest – Historical Sites Category

1st Place, Art Alliance Spring Show 2023 – “Beauty of Nacogdoches” (Juried by William U. Eiland, Director, Georgia Museum of Art)


Skills

Adobe Lightroom & Photoshop

Studio & Natural Lighting

Image Retouching

Social Media Marketing

Client Communication

Video Production (Basic)