We recently connected with Chris Gardner and have shared our conversation below.
Chris, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I started photography after I graduated high school in 2011. I taught myself by watching videos online and trial and error. My parents bought me my first camera, so I went out and started shooting anything and everything. In 2014 I attended The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham to get some formal training in digital arts. I learned how to work with a team of artists in the studio and on location, which helped me develop into a better photographer.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
Growing up, I always had an interest in the arts. I went to a small K-12 school in Rocky Mount, NC that didn’t offer any art classes, so I wasn’t able to try different things and find my passion. After high school, I got my first camera and fell in love with it. I started taking photos of anything and everything — mostly overprocessed landscapes and cats. I taught myself how to use Photoshop and began experimenting with more abstract concepts of the human experience inspired by artists like Joel Robison, Rosie Hardy, and Alex Stoddard. Most of my early work is conceptual in nature and relies heavily on Photoshop but that changed in 2014 when I The Art Institutes of Raleigh-Durham. I began to travel for photoshoots instead of taking photos of myself at home. I developed an interest in fashion and travel photography during this period and was lucky enough to meet other amazing photographers who have become close friends and have pushed me to become the photographer I am today.
In the summer of 2022, I began to insert myself into the world of automotive photography. I’ve loved cars since I was a little kid but it never occurred to me that I could use them as subjects in my work. After my first shoot, it clicked – this was the direction I wanted to go in my photography career. There is so much I still have to learn but I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My main goal is to be able to support myself and my family with my photography. Being behind the camera is the only work I’ve ever truly loved. I went through a period where I was away from photography for a few years, but it was always in the back of my mind. My new passion for automotive photography has only fueled that desire.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Attending car shows has been the best way for me to meet people in the car community. These people love their cars and it’s my intention to showcase what they’ve built with my photography. Getting up at 6 a.m. to go to Cars & Coffee is always the highlight of my month. I get to meet new people, photograph amazing cars, and possibly gain new clients in the process.
Contact Info:
- Website: cgardnerphotography.com
- Instagram: cgardnerphotos
- Other: www.behance.net/chrisgardner9
Image Credits
Images by Chris Gardner