At ONA, we are fortunate to work with a global community of photographers, who we live vicariously through as they travel the world and share their stories. We met photographer Chris Amat back in 2014 – he shared some incredible photos he had taken of his hometown Calgary, Alberta – and today, we share a bit more about Chris and highlight some of his recent work.
Name: Chris Amat
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Describe your aesthetic in five words or less: Minimal, natural and clean.
Go-to gear: When it comes to personal work I usually grab the Canon 5D Mark IV, Canon 50mm 1.2 and when I am on a job I usually grab the Canon 24-70 2.8.
Favorite place to photograph: Anywhere new.
Biggest creative influence: This is going to sound cheesy but I don't really have one biggest creative influence. I am constantly inspired by everything around me, from waking up in the morning and seeing what the community on Instagram is doing to taking a walk in my city and watching everyone go about their lives. My friends are a huge source of inspiration, everything from their work, conversations and encouragement.
Thing you can’t live without: Coffee and my cats.
Pictured above: The leather Brixton messenger
What motivates you: New experiences, new people and new challenges that come up during a job. It's always great to be pushed and to create something outside of your comfort zone that you are proud of.
Time of day are you most creative: Mornings between 8am-11am.
Biggest challenge: Admin work. There is a lot more to being a freelance photographer than snapping beautiful pictures. It's something we don't really talk about as much and it's a very important part of the job.
One piece of advice that stuck with you: One of my teachers told me to "never get attached to your client work." Although I don't always agree with that, it does help to remove yourself from the work if there is any negative feedback. I think it's important to be able to take criticism and grow from it, the clients needs might differ from your personal opinion.
Mistake you’ve learned from: When I was working as a designer I would constantly see "the big picture" of the work and miss out on small details. It's the small details that make the work really stand out.
Work you are most proud of: As of lately I have been challenging myself to capture everyday moments with my iPhone, it might not be the most exciting work but for me it's been refreshing and I am genuinely inspired to keep documenting the everyday moments.
Most used phrase: "Another drink?"
Earliest memory: I can barely remember what I did last week. Pass.
Hidden talent: Convincing my mom to buy me things.
Dream project: Documenting the architecture, artists and locals on Fogo Island.
Most recent “a-ha” moment: Valuing my work and standing by it.
Goal for 2017: To document my dream project.
Lightning round -
Sweet or savory: Sweet
Childhood celebrity crush: Posh Spice
Cats or dogs: Cats
Favorite book: Where the Wild Things Are
Biggest fear: Sitting in a cubicle
CONNECT WITH CHRIS