Conner Schuh

Quick Facts

Program: Photography, BA
Concentration: Commercial Photography
Graduation Year: 2018
Current Job Title: Photographer for the Sacramento Kings
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Current City: Sacramento, CA

Life at CBU

Why did you choose your program? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I knew I wanted to do photography because it kept me close to the world of sports and the things I’ve always loved being around. It gave me a creative outlet and a way to tell stories through moments. Once I visited CBU and met some of the professors, it just felt like the right fit. They were supportive and passionate and made me feel like I could actually turn this into a career. That really sealed it for me.

What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
The community and support I felt in the program made a huge difference. The professors actually cared and pushed me to grow, not just creatively but professionally too. I also liked how hands-on everything was — we weren’t just learning theory, we were out shooting, working on real projects and building a portfolio that helped prepare us for the real world. It was a space where I could explore my style, make mistakes and really figure out what kind of creative I wanted to be.

What did you think about your professors?
My professors were one of the best parts of my experience at CBU. They weren’t just great teachers — they were also working professionals out in the real world, doing real work with real clients. That made a big difference because their feedback and guidance came from actual experience, not just theory. They challenged me creatively, helped me grow and really cared about preparing us for what it’s like to work in the industry after graduation.

Did you complete an internship?
I did a lot of freelance work in and around LA while I was in school, which gave me great exposure to different styles and types of photography. At CBU, I worked for the athletics department doing photography, which was a perfect fit since I’ve always loved being around sports. I was also a photographer and editor for the campus newspaper, which helped me build storytelling and editorial skills under deadline pressure. On top of that, I worked at a rental house in Los Angeles, where I learned a ton about the gear used on professional sets. That experience really leveled up my technical knowledge and helped me make connections in the industry that I still lean on today.

Did you participate in anything else at CBU?
Yes, I was involved with the campus newspaper where I worked as both a photographer and an editor. That role helped me develop strong storytelling skills and taught me how to work under tight deadlines. I was also a photographer for the athletics department, working closely with Jacob Gonzalez. That experience allowed me to capture important sports moments and gave me valuable insight into working with a team. Both opportunities helped me grow professionally and connect more deeply with the campus community.

How did you grow while in this program at CBU?
Being in this program at CBU helped me grow in every way. Educationally, I became much more confident in my skills — not just technically, but also in how I think creatively and approach real-world projects. Spiritually, being in a faith-based environment helped keep me grounded and reminded me of the bigger purpose behind my work and creativity. Socially, I built strong friendships and professional relationships with classmates and professors who pushed me, supported me, and helped shape the person and creative I am today. It was a place where I could grow, take risks and start carving out my path.

Did your program help you figure out your purpose?
Absolutely. The program helped me realize that photography isn’t just about taking pictures — it’s about capturing moments and telling stories that matter. It gave me the tools and the confidence to use my creativity in a way that connects with people and reflects what I care about. Being at CBU, surrounded by supportive professors and classmates, helped me see that my purpose is not only to create visually but to do so with intention and meaning. It’s shaped how I approach my work and my life.

Life after CBU

What have you done since graduating?
After graduating, I freelanced around Los Angeles for a while before coming back to my hometown of Sacramento to continue freelancing here. Eventually, I landed a full-time photographer position with the Sacramento Kings, which has been an incredible experience. In 2023, our team was named NBA Team of the Year, a testament to the hard work, creativity and quality of content we produce. I’ve had the chance to work with the Nike Drew League, collaborate with numerous recording artists, clothing brands and athletes, and be part of special projects with the Kings. Some highlights include shooting several campaigns for new jersey releases and merchandise drops. It’s been rewarding to be part of such a dynamic team and to contribute to the content that connects with fans and the community.

What are your current job duties?
As a full-time photographer with the Sacramento Kings, I handle a wide range of photography needs. I shoot all merchandise for the team store, capturing images that showcase our apparel and products in the best light. I also cover every concert at the arena, documenting performances and capturing the energy of the events. Beyond that, I shoot live games, behind-the-scenes moments, promotional campaigns and special collaborations. I work closely with marketing and media teams to create engaging visual content for fans across digital platforms while also managing photo editing and organizing our digital assets to maintain consistent quality.

How has your program and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
My time at CBU gave me more than just technical skills — it prepared me for the real world in so many ways. The hands-on learning, supportive professors and opportunities to work on actual projects helped me build confidence and practical experience. It also taught me how to balance creativity with professionalism, which has been essential in my career. The community and values at CBU shaped me personally and spiritually, giving me a strong foundation to navigate challenges and keep growing both as an artist and a person. Overall, CBU set me up to pursue my passion with purpose and with the skills to succeed.

Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life today?
Definitely. I still rely on the technical skills I learned, like working with different cameras and lighting setups. But more importantly, CBU taught me how to be a professional in the photography world — how to manage deadlines, communicate with clients and teams and handle the day-to-day realities of the job. The focus on storytelling through images and the mentorship I received helped me grow and keep improving, which I use in every project I take on.

How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
Through my photography, I strive to capture moments that inspire and connect people — whether it’s the excitement of a game, the energy of a concert or the spirit behind a community event. I believe storytelling through images has the power to bring people together and highlight what matters most. Living my purpose means using my creativity to share those stories honestly and with intention, helping others see the beauty and passion in their own experiences. It’s about more than just pictures — it’s about making an impact through visual connection.

What are your future goals and plans?
My goal is to continue growing as a photographer and storyteller, expanding the types of projects I work on and pushing my creative boundaries. I want to take on more leadership roles within my field, whether that means mentoring others or taking lead on more creative campaigns. I’m also interested in exploring new mediums and technologies to keep my work fresh and relevant. Ultimately, I want to keep using my skills to connect with people and make a meaningful impact through the stories I capture.

Would you recommend CBU to others?
Absolutely, I would recommend CBU to anyone who wants a hands-on, supportive learning environment. The professors genuinely care about your growth and success, and the program gives you real-world experience that prepares you for a career. Beyond the technical skills, CBU helped me build confidence, creativity and a strong sense of purpose. If you want a place that challenges you but also supports you every step of the way, CBU is a great choice.

Anything else you'd like to add? Anything else we should know about you?
Outside of photography, I’m really passionate about sports and staying active, which ties back to how I got started in this field. I enjoy golf a lot, and I love to travel when I have time off from working with the Kings. I also love spending time with my family and friends, who’ve been a huge support throughout my journey. When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll often find me exploring new places, golfing, going to concerts or working on personal creative projects. I’m always looking for ways to grow both professionally and personally, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had so far.