Courtney Bowlden Photography

Courtney Bowlden Photography Award winning destination photographer & educator based in Utah & worldwide Frequently in Paris, France.

Award winning destination wedding & portrait photographer, based in Utah, Washington and California.

05/19/2026

I’ve photographed hundreds of couples for their engagement photos and these are the top mistakes I see couples make, so I wanted to create this helpful reel that will guide you too get better engagement photos back from your photographer.
Is there anything I’m missing from this list? Leave a comment with your suggestion!

05/15/2026

Photographers: am I right?! I always have a problem with this, especially during wedding season. It’s never just one more photo 😩😂

Excited to be heading to Seattle for the weekend. I have back to back engagement sessions, a family session and a matern...
05/08/2026

Excited to be heading to Seattle for the weekend. I have back to back engagement sessions, a family session and a maternity from a past bride. I love seeing old faces and past clients but I’m excited to meet the new couples I’ll be photographing for their wedding later this summer.

05/06/2026
05/06/2026

Planning a photoshoot in Paris sounds dreamy… and it is—but there are a few things that make all the difference between “pretty photos” and those photos you can’t stop looking at.

Having spent a lot of time living in Paris, I’ve learned that Paris isn’t just about the landmarks—it’s about timing, light, and feeling. The city changes so much throughout the day, and knowing when (and where) to shoot is everything.

Here are a few things I always tell my clients:

The best light in Paris happens early. Like… really early. Sunrise sessions aren’t just about soft, glowy light (although that alone is worth it). It’s also when the city feels quiet and intimate—fewer crowds, cleaner backdrops, and that romantic, almost cinematic feel Paris is known for.

Location matters, but not in the way you might think. Yes, we can absolutely shoot near iconic spots, but some of my favorite images happen on quiet side streets, tucked-away corners, or cafés that feel effortlessly Parisian. That’s where the magic tends to live.

Outfits make a difference. Paris has this timeless, elevated energy, and leaning into that—neutral tones, classic silhouettes, movement in fabrics—photographs so beautifully against the architecture. Don’t be afraid to be a little fancier than you normally dress at home. You’re in Paris after all!

And honestly? The biggest thing is just allowing yourself to experience it. The best photos happen when you’re not overthinking, when you’re walking, laughing, taking it all in. My job is to guide you in a way that feels natural so you don’t have to worry about what to do.

If Paris has been on your heart and mind for a while, this is your sign to make it happen. I share little tips like this (and a lot of behind-the-scenes) over on my page and blog, and if you ever want help planning your own Paris photo session, I’m always here 🤍
*Dress:.sf
*Hair/makeup:

Are you planning a destination wedding or elopement to France? I've written a helpful blog post about how to plan your d...
04/09/2026

Are you planning a destination wedding or elopement to France? I've written a helpful blog post about how to plan your destination wedding or elopement in France. I have also included some helpful guides on what season is best to elope to France as well as the best wedding venues. Be sure to check it out!

03/26/2026

After photographing the wedding details and before I start taking pictures of the bride getting her dress and veil on, I love to grab a glass of bubbly and the bridal gals to do a little toast. It always helps to ease the nerves and start the wedding celebrations off right.

03/23/2026

If puppy are looking for inspiration for a spring styled wedding theme, this is the best way to do it. You can’t beat cherry blossom season! It’s my favorite time of year.
- Venue
- Planner/Day of coordinationmarina_beauty - Hair and Makeup
- Rentals
- Desinger/Planner/Florist
- Stationary
- Model
- Dresses
- Cake

03/22/2026

If you’ve ever wondered what an elopement in Paris looks like, this is it (and more). I love photographing elopements in Paris. It’s not only my favorite city but I lived there for almost two years. I know the city so well from all the walking I did while living there.
If you’re looking for a photographer for your Paris elopement, I’d love to help! Ask for my Paris planning guide in a private message.

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Salt Lake City, UT

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