I'm Uncle Willie's Son
Meet the photographer
More Than Photography—A Legacy of Storytelling
Hi, I’m Jeremy Coates, the photographer and storyteller behind Willieson Photography.
Photography has been more than a profession for me—it’s been a way to preserve moments, tell meaningful stories, and create lasting memories. I’ve been photographing professionally since 2014, and what continues to inspire me most is the ability to freeze a moment in time that can be cherished for generations.
The name Willieson Photography carries a story of its own.
My father, Willie Sam, was my biggest supporter and one of the most influential people in my life. He believed in me, encouraged my dreams, and constantly pushed me to pursue my passion. After he passed away on August 29, 2022, I wanted to create something that would honor his legacy and the impact he had on my journey.
The name “Willieson” is a tribute to him. It combines his name, Willie, with the fact that I am his son—a reflection of where I come from and the foundation he helped build.
The meaning extends into my logo as well. The “W” and “S” represent Willie Sam, while the “S” is formed with olive branches. From a biblical perspective, olive branches symbolize hope, peace, endurance, and God’s faithfulness. For me, they serve as a reminder that even through loss, there is hope, purpose, and beauty to be found in the stories we carry forward.
That belief is at the heart of everything I create.
Whether I’m photographing a graduate stepping into a new chapter, a couple celebrating their love, or a family preserving memories together, my goal is always the same: to create authentic, timeless imagery that tells a story worth remembering.
I believe the most meaningful photographs are not just the ones that show what a moment looked like—they remind us how it felt.
Thank you for being here and allowing me the opportunity to tell your story.
— Jeremy Coates
Founder & Photographer
Willieson Photography