Christopher Payne Interview: Photography to me is an outlet to see that world differently.
Swanky Magazine Interviews the wonderfully talented photographer - Christopher Payne
PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT | Christopher Payne from Chesapeake, Virginia but based out of Richmond, Virginia
Q1.Swanky Mag: Hello Christopher, Can you introduce yourself to Swanky Magazine’s readers? Can you tell us a little about you?
Hello, all my name is Christopher Payne but everyone calls me Chris Payne. I am a 30 photographer and videographer from Chesapeake, Virginia. I’ve been shooting for about 6 years now.
Q2.How and when did you get into photography?
In 2016 I was doing my internship with Norfolk State University Spartan Legion Marching Band on the media team as a photographer. I started to post my work and a lot of people told me that I had a good eye and that I should try shooting more. Once I graduated, I started to work on my craft and started shooting full-time.
Q3.What does photography mean to you?
Photography to me is an outlet to see that world differently. To be able to take a subject and make it so that other people can see it how I saw it.
Q4.Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I would consider my photography style as more outdoors. I love shooting in the elements and
using natural lighting compared to working in a studio setting.
Q5.Where do you get your inspiration from?
Pinterest, Instagram, a variety of magazines, and music videos. Sometimes looking at another artist's work gives me a source of inspiration to pull from.
Q6.Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?
Not really, once I start shooting, I look around to make sure there isn’t anything in the background that will be a distraction to the viewers
Q7.Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I do it as a hobby and as a paid professional. I shoot to keep my skills growing and to also get my work out to the world. I have done two weddings, birthday parties, graduation photos.
Q8. What has been your most memorable session, and why?
My favorite session had to be shooting before a lightning storm. Before the storm moved over the temperature reached the upper 90’s but the model and I made it work and the pictures came out great.
Q9. Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
I started off with the Canon SL1 with the 24-105 L series lens. Now I have moved up to the Sony A7III with the 85mm 1.8.
Q10. What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
Shoot any chance you get. Work with different photographers and models until you know what your style of shooting is.
Q11. What do you think of our new magazine?
I like the new layout and format. The online layout is easier to navigate and each submission
looks good.
Follow Christopher’s Journey here:
instagram.com Christopher Payne (@cpaynephotography_) • Instagram photos and videos
