BYU's Matthew Norton follows two-time winner Brooklynn Jarvis Kelson
One of BYU’s very own is the best student photographer in all the land. Information systems student Matthew Norton was just named the Student Photographer of the Year by the University Photographer’s Association of America.
Making it that much sweeter, Norton’s UPAA award makes that three in a row for BYU, and more specifically, BYU Photo. He's the latest winning photographer trained and mentored by BYU's full-time photo team of Jaren Wilkey, Nate Edwards and Aaron Cornia.
“It’s much more than just a student job,” Norton said. “Being able to learn from Nate, Jaren, and Aaron has been incredible because they sacrifice so much to teach the students. They push us to lead, plan, and execute shoots — and even cover shoots that I’m sure they wish they could photograph sometimes. They let us have those opportunities.”
Norton’s early interest in photography was sparked by his mom, who often photographed his sports games. Similar to his interest then, Norton loves to shoot sports the most now: “I think it’s most exciting to be in the action or on the sidelines capturing sports because they are so fast-paced and the moments only happen once.”
Initially, Norton started his college journey at Utah Valley University, where he completed his associate’s degree before transferring to BYU for its business program. But it was BYU Photo’s exceptional work on Instagram that caught his attention and made him want to get involved, even if it was just to be a bag carrier.
To his surprise, BYU Photo not only welcomed student involvement with shoots, but they also hired students. After applying a couple of times for the position, he landed the job and became a key employee of the team for the next three and a half years.
Over the years, Norton has spent hours capturing sporting events, people, and places around campus. He said one of the things he finds most enjoyable is helping people who feel uncomfortable in front of the camera shine.
“Matt is a natural at putting people at ease when they are in front of the camera,” said Wilkey, Director of BYU Photo. “So many people walked into a photo shoot nervous and unsure of themselves and after being with Matt they left feeling confident and comfortable with how things turned out.”
Norton just finished up his degree in information systems this summer and is starting full-time work, but said he will keep photography a big part of his plans going forward. Wilkey, Edwards and Cornia have inspired him with their openness to share their knowledge rather than gatekeeping special skills. He wants to continue in their footsteps and not just teach others about photography, but convey the spiritual experience it can be.
“Photography is more than just taking a photo,” Norton said. “It can also tie into sharing the gospel or improving someone’s life.”
To see Norton's award-winning photos and the award winning photos of others from BYU Photo, check out this gallery:
