A Portrait of an Artist: Cody Hoagland: “Payson is a Photographer’s Dream”

Bringing beauty to the pages of the recently published Payson Chamber of Commerce Directory and a new billboard near the North Main Street entrance from I-15 were local artists and photographers who shared their work with the organization. Among these artists was Cody Hoagland, an-award winning photographer from Payson, who has a resume as impressive as the photographs he shoots professionally.

Holding a camera seems to come naturally to Hoagland, the photographer conveyed to The Payson Chronicle last week. Following his father, who had a passion for photography, he has been capturing amazing images since he was a little boy.

Cody’s more recent photographic projects have been displayed in the Monte L. Bean Life and Science Museum in Provo, Utah, received recognition and awards from National Geographic, as well as best of shows awards and other honors in local contests.  He has also been featured on local television.

The professional photographer’s contributions to the Chamber of Commerce projects reflect a respect for and understanding of the Payson area which they represent. “I grew up in Springville, but after relocating to Payson four years ago, I call it my hometown,” he said. “I love Payson.  It’s a playground for the outdoor enthusiast, with Payson Canyon and Mt. Nebo in your backyard. I love hiking the trails, seeing the beauty that Payson Canyon has to offer.”

In the summer months, Cody likes to attend and photograph local festivities that occur throughout the city. “One of my favorite things to photograph is the Scottish Festival that is held in Payson every July,” he said. “I have a deep Scottish heritage and love to photograph all the Scottish events around Utah. Payson has so much heritage and beauty that surrounds it. It is a photographer’s dream.”

Where the scenery is pleasing, so too are the people Cody encounters as he pursues his passion within the community.   “I have found that the residents in Payson will do anything for each other- go out of their way to lend a helping hand,” he said.

Cody invests not only his time and energy into his photography.  “I don't just shoot a photo,” he said. “I try to capture the mood of the situation.  I shoot with my heart. If the photo doesn't capture that, then I delete it.”

And be it far away or at home in Payson, his talent is unmistakable, and passion clear.

“Over the years I have photographed places and things that people only dream about seeing,” he added, detailing the broader scope of his photography. “My true passion is capturing majestic animals in their natural habitat and bringing them to life for the viewer through my lens.  My love for wildlife goes far beyond that of just taking beautiful images of these animals. I study each individual species before photograph them so as to ensure their comfort and safety as well as my own.”