Hi, I’m Chris, a photographer specializing in surf, underwater, and landscape photography. I’m a self-taught photographer who’s willing to dive into freezing water, swim through waves, and trek deep into the wilderness to capture the perfect shot.
Inspired by my surfing experiences, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, I look to showcase the beauty of land and water while offering new perspectives to those who might not have the chance to experience these places themselves.
My journey into underwater photography began with a GoPro. Craving greater creative freedom, I transitioned to a full underwater camera housing—and I’ve never looked back. Over the past decade, underwater and surf photography continue to fuel my passion, unlocking exciting opportunities and inspiring me every day.
I currently live in Portland, Oregon, with my wife and our two cats, George and Harlow.
Can you take photos of me in the water?
Of course! I work with surfers, kneeboarders, paddleboarders and bodyboarders of all ages and skill levels in fresh and saltwater environments. Booking a session with me supports my passion for underwater photography. Learn more by navigating to my Bookings page.
How do you capture split shots?
I use a dome port and a fisheye lens to capture split shots. The dome port pushes the waterline away from the camera’s sensor, and a close-focus fisheye lens expands the field of view while reducing distortion underwater. I hold my camera halfway in the water and take the photo. The degrees of difficulty increases when I can’t reliably stand on the bottom, if there is current and when the water temperature is colder, requiring thicker neoprene gloves.
What are your favorite shooting locations?
For surf photography, I love sunrise sessions at Cape Kiwanda and afternoons at Short Sands Beach. In the mountains, I’m drawn to places with crystal-clear water and dramatic landscapes.
What equipment do you use?
I shoot with a Canon mirrorless camera housed in an Aquatech Imaging Solutions surf housing. When working in cold water, I rely on a thick neoprene wetsuit with gloves, a hood, and booties—plus fins to stay mobile in the water.
What’s the biggest challenge of underwater photography?
Underwater and surf photography can be physically demanding. In the ocean, I’m constantly swimming, navigating waves, and staying alert. On land, hiking with heavy gear into remote locations adds another layer of difficulty. I’ve long since accepted that being an ultralight backpacker isn’t in the cards for me!
What’s your favorite part of this work?
I love discovering and sharing underwater perspectives that most people haven’t seen before. For surf photography, I especially enjoy working with clients and shooting at surf contests, like the Cape Kiwanda Longboard Classic in Pacific City. For underwater photography, discovering interesting geological features is very motivating. You can’t use satellite imagery to examine underwater features, you have to go and explore these places yourself with a camera or mask and snorkel. Knowing you captured an image never seen before is exciting.
Frequently asked questions
I join Steve McCarron and Kelly Koopmans on Seattle’s ARC in 2024 to talk about my photography and inspirations.