Corey Wilson

From the heavy waters of Teahupo'o to futuristic studio sets with Aston Martin, Corey Wilson lets his work do the talking. No ego. No theatrics. Just focus, instinct, and a good eye.⁠

Tell us about your closet. What is important to you in your wardrobe and what makes you feel good?

Most days I keep it pretty simple, nothing too flashy. I like clean, well made clothes that feel good and last. Stuff I can wear on set and still feel comfortable grabbing dinner after. I’m big on fit and feel. If it’s easy to throw on and doesn’t need much thought, that’s usually what I’m reaching for.

Oftentimes artists’ work style doesn’t always align and define how they dress. Do you feel your work mirrors your personal style?

Yeah, I think there’s definitely a connection. My work comes from feeling and flow, and my style’s the same. It’s never about chasing trends,  it’s about what feels true in the moment. Whether it’s how I shoot or how I dress, I try to keep it grounded and real.

You’ve been all over the place and captured so many locations and moments. Thinking back, what is the scariest moment you’ve found yourself in behind the lens?

There’s been a few, but getting caught inside at Teahupo'o on a big day stands out. You’ve got 25-foot waves slamming one side, boats pushing in close on the other, and I’m swimming right in the middle. Absolute chaos. When one of those waves hits you, it’s like getting hit by a truck underwater. You’re spinning, can’t tell which way is up, and all you can do is stay calm and wait it out. It’s scary, but you trust your training. Then you come up, breathe, and get back to it. Those moments are intense, but that’s where the wildest shots come from.

Considering the success you have created not only for yourself but others, you are a very humble person. How do you maintain this consistency and stay true to yourself?

It’s about staying grounded in what got me here, the ocean, my friends, my family, and the feeling of chasing something real. I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors in my life and I try to pass that energy forward. The work has never been just about me. I’m just grateful to be doing what I love and to keep learning as I go.

If you could give any bit of advice to up-and-coming artists of any form, what would that be?

Create what you love or what genuinely interests you. Don’t overthink it or try to follow what everyone else is doing. The world doesn’t need more copies,  it needs your perspective. Stay curious, keep creating, and surround yourself with people who push you to be better in all different areas of life. If you stay true to that, everything will fall into place.

Whiskey or Tequila?

Japanese whiskey for the win :)