Interview with Photographer Chris Wright
CALEB SCHAFTLEIN,
Photographer Interview: Chris Wright
Full Name: Christopher Wright
Age: 37
Country: United States, Pennsylvania
Photography Genre: Portrait, Model, and Storytelling photography
1. Could you please provide us with a professional introduction about yourself and your photography work?
I’ve had the honor of being featured in top publications like Ricochet and USA Today, yet it’s not accolades that fuel me—it’s impact. I work with Samsara and contribute to NewsBreak, always merging tech with the human story.
2. Can you tell us about how you got started in photography?
I dabbled in creativity from a young age, but photography stole my heart in my 30s. Why? Because I found the lens to be a gateway to someone’s soul, a chance for them to see their own story, perhaps for the first time.
3. What was your passion driving you during your journey? Who or what prompted you to begin?
My own hardships—abuse, loss, and near-death experiences—aren’t sob stories; they’re fuel. They’re a constant reminder that we can convert pain into beauty and despair into storytelling.
4. Could you walk us through your photoshoot planning process?
Forget scripts; I bring out the ‘you’ in you. I dive into your life journey, seeking to paint it in the most authentic hues. For me, each snapshot is a candid moment frozen in time, immortalizing your essence.
5. As a photography expert, what sets your work apart from other photographers?
The lens captures more than images—it captures experience. Alongside portraits, you get drone shots, social media clips, and even articles. And guess what? This holistic, transformative experience often costs nothing. I’m here for the impact, not the invoice.
6. Where do you get your ideas for photoshoots?
Your story inspires the shoot. For instance, after learning about Katie Edwards’ self-confidence journey, a bustling downtown Philly backdrop was a no-brainer. It screamed ‘unshakeable confidence amidst chaos,’ much like Katie herself.
7. Can you tell us about the most memorable moment you’ve had as a photographer and what experience you gained from that?
Capturing family moments elevates my craft to something more: it becomes a legacy. These aren’t just photos; they’re heirlooms, teachings on how to love, connect, and cherish what matters most.
8. What are the most important components of an extraordinary photograph, in your opinion?
The magic lies in authenticity. When you let go, becoming at ease with who you are, that’s when I capture not just an image but an emotion—a story.
9. How do you strike a balance between your artistic expression and your client’s expectations during a shoot?
Building rapport is step one; it’s never a transaction but a collaboration. Once trust is there, blending my artistic voice with your expectations becomes a natural, effortless dance.
10. How do other artists influence your work? Are there any other photographers you look up to? Who?
Mark Laita, the man behind Soft White Underbelly, is my lodestar. He swapped glamour for grit and gave a platform to voices that society often mutes. That’s beyond inspirational.
11. How do you enhance your vision after a session by post-processing your photos? Do you have a best-kept secret for editing processing that you’d like to share?
I use Lightroom, Photoshop, and Luminar Neo in harmony, layering them to craft a narrative that the camera alone couldn’t capture. It’s about amplifying not just the visual but the emotional tones of an image.
12. Can you tell us about the most difficult photographic challenge you’ve ever had, including lighting, unexpected situations, and how you managed the issues on set?
Studio lighting and I have a love-hate relationship. When a shoot goes south, I pause, learn, adapt, and we both laugh it off. Honesty and trust always turn obstacles into anecdotes.
13. What are your top tips for aspiring photographers on skill development and finding their own creative voice? How did you develop yours?
Get the basics down, sure. But after that, let your intuition take the reins. Your unique perspective isn’t a bug; it’s a feature. Embrace it.
14. What is your favorite piece of work you’ve ever shot?
Ashlyn, a rising Pennsylvania model, and her growth since our shoot is proof of photography’s transformative power. Seeing her blossom in her craft fills me with indescribable joy. wrightsmind.com/?work=tod6k86jzgln
15. Can you tell me about an upcoming project you’re working on and the idea behind it?
I’m venturing into uncharted waters with a music video for Anisha LaBelle. Her struggle with mental health resonates with me, and translating that emotional terrain into a musical narrative is both a challenge and a privilege.
16. Where can we view more of your work and connect with you?
To dive deeper into my world of storytelling through lenses, follow me on Instagram or visit my portfolio wrightsmind.com and business site (inthewrightmind.com).
Credits:
Photo: @wrightsmind
Model: @micaelavillante
Cr Dir: @anishalabelle
