Featured Arizona photographer: Chris Loomis

I recently discovered a very talented Phoenix and Scottsdale area photographer in a roundabout sort of way. I had stumbled across the “auctiontainer” Letitia Frye and happened to pick up on the photography on her website. Turns out it was the work of Chris Loomis, a multi-faceted photographer who has shot everything from architecture to portrait to high fashion.

[Ryan] You seem to photograph a range of subjects, from high fashion to architecture, how would you explain your personal style and approach to photography?

[Chris] I have become proficient shooting a range of subject matter (in the commercial arena) by necessity in the Phoenix area. To make a living specializing in just one area can be difficult in a particular market. That being said, I believe my portfolio/website is a comprehensive look at the subject matter I most gravitate towards and in some cases the blending of these subjects, i.e. fashion in context with architecture, etc. My style is driven by finding a relationship between my subject matter and the environment…in the case of my editorial portfolio I love illustrating through environmental portraiture, people intimately embedded in their place of work or amongst things they create…or even creating that relationship through my own sense of art direction (I art direct most of my photo shoots.) This is also how I handle my fashion photography…I’m really into high fashion/wearable art and also vintage styles. Additionally, I like to use unorthodox lighting, when appropriate, to create more drama and interest in my imagery…it is also my own personal touch. My Personal (fine art) work and Theme Park portfolio is more about capturing subtle moments candidly while traveling or through concept that are powerful and full of memory, yet still tell a story.

When shooting, where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from pretty much everywhere…but I’m a total fan of surrealism and creating projects that are high concept. My background is growing up watching healthy amounts of Star Trek, weird sci-if movies, 70’s cartoons etc. I’m also very impressed by architecture…particularly mid century modern and futuristic…but I also love gothic cathedrals and even ruins…then putting a model in these places!!!

I think that a lot of men don’t feel real comfortable in front of a camera. Are there some simple things men can do to get more of a “red carpet” look?

For men being photographed: DONT BE SHY….let yourself go….don’t constantly wait for direction from a photographer…they will tell you what to do when they need to push you in a certain direction. Be yourself!

Contact Chris Loomis

Visit the Chris Loomis website to view his portfolios and contact him directly! And if you’re looking for a Phoenix based wedding planner, look no further than Liz Marcou of Twenty Five Event Management.

In the Denver area?

Read our interview with Moreau Co here.