Chris Brown – The Path From Pro Shred to Photographer

Chris Brown is an OG Calgary-born shredder who played a big part in the growth of our dear sport, representing Canada well on the international scene throughout our sports formative years with consistently progressive video parts for Mack Dawg, The Wildcats and many others. Always known as man of style both on and off-snow, it was no surprise when I started to see more and more incredible photographs popping up on my news feed from Brown. I suspected he was up to something and sure enough recently announced his new website and business, Ckristo Photo, open for business both in action-sports as well as studio and commercial work. 

 

Johnny Lyall with a bangin' slasher!

 

From what I've seen of his work, it's clear Brown has an exceptional eye not only for composition but also even more importantly, unique compositions of what may normally go unseen to the naked eye. The pow slash photo of Johnny Lyall above gives me the chills and his slow-shutter work is especially well-done, bringing a unique view to otherwise familiar scenes.

And don't forget to check out his new relaunched website at ckristophoto.com

 

 

33MAG: What have you been up to lately? How has the post-pro snowboarding life been treating you?

Chris: I've been snowboarding and taking photos, working on Airhole stuff. The usual snowboard bum life you know. I wish I was still getting paid to screw around in the mountains but I guess that ended a while ago. I'm working on it again though.

Your photographs have been popping up everywhere I look lately. Is this something you were always into or is it a new thing for you?

I've definitely always had a fascination for photography. I took a lot of pics when I was younger but didn't have a DSLR until about 3 years ago. Since then its been my main addiction.

 

 

What got you interested in photography in the first place and what is it about shooting snaps that appeals to you?

I'd say being in front of the lens and seeing the results got me into it. Also having a lot of pro photographer friends in the snowboard world who inspired me to give it a go. I shoot a lot of landscape and lifestyle stuff. I don't have a snowmobile at the moment so my snowboard stuff is limited. Im trying to sell my car so i can get a truck and sled though.

At what point did you decide to make a "real go" at it and turn it from a hobby into a business?

I'd say just in the past 6 months. After snowboarding I've really been searching for what makes me happy in life. I tried a few different things (realtor, sales person, DJ) and found that my passion still lies in being creative. I like to make things whether it be photographs or products. I just love it.

 

Mark Sollors

 

Do you find many similarities between shooting photos and the shred life?

I think I learned a lot about angles and perspective when I was snowboarding. I would always give my input to the filmers and photographers of where I thought they could make the shot look the best. I feel it translates now.

You do a lot of great work with slow shutter snaps and other creative takes on old subject. Where do your ideas and motivation come from?

I spend a lot of time on the net looking at other peoples work and gaining inspiration from there. With digital cameras its become endless what you can do now. Its kind of tragic but awesome in the same way.

 

The Lions Gate Bridge

 

What do you ultimately hope to get out of photography. Is it all about the bucks or is there more to it than that?

To me I will shoot and post photographs no matter what. I am starting late in my life for a shred photographer career but Ill give it a go. I don't expect to make millions but if I make any money, that would be great!

 

 

I'm really looking forward to seeing where Chris takes his photography and look forward to enjoying it as he hopefully continues to share his beautiful imagery with the social-media world.

Enjoy a few more of Chris' favourite shots and check out his website at ckristophoto.com