Seattle-based photographer Chris Fabregas’ love for photography began at 8 years old by winning a school photography contest. It wasn’t until later as an adult he put all his cards down and went all in to be an artist. A good choice some would say as his art currently sits in the homes of the rich and famous, a far cry from the schoolboy he once was in that contest. Fast forward to now and he’s the artist on everybody’s tongue. He boasts over 26,000 Instagram followers and calls some of the world’s top celebrities friends.
We sat down with the photographer exclusively to peel back the curtain and delve into the world of Fabregas.
How did you start your photography?
I fell in love with photography when I was 8 years old. I entered a school photo contest and won. I’m sure it was beginner’s luck but that got me hooked and I became captivated by the art of capturing moments through the lens of a camera. In between playing sports and school, I would always have a camera with me. I love the outdoors so it was easy to photograph nature’s beauty. It wasn’t until 2018 that I took the leap and decided to turn my passion into a profession. I began selling my landscape prints professionally
What inspires you to keep creating?
I have a great appreciation for the outdoors. Sometimes, taking a road trip and exploring a new area is a huge inspiration for my photography. Living in the Pacific Northwest there are so many beautiful places to capture that it’s hard not to take a great picture. There are also so many great photographers on social media that it helps to get a boost of creativity from looking at their work.
You’re from Seattle, what gets your creative juices flowing when you’re in your hometown?
Seattle and the surrounding areas are a constant source of inspiration for my photography. The city boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and urban landscapes. Whether it’s the iconic Space Needle set against a dramatic sky or the nearby beautiful wilderness, there’s always something intriguing to capture. The ever-changing weather also adds an element of surprise, making each shot an artistic adventure. I feel very fortunate to call the Pacific Northwest my home.
You recently went viral on social media which led to fans at your house, can you tell us a little more about that?
It was an incredible experience when a few of my photography posts went viral on social media. The response was overwhelming, and I started gaining many new followers and fans. People began asking for an in-person pop-up gallery since my work is currently only available online. While it was an amazing feeling to see my work appreciated by so many, it did lead to some unexpected surprises. I had people driving by my house, and someone even climbed the fence in our backyard. It was both flattering and a bit overwhelming at times. Overall, the experience was a rollercoaster ride, and it made me appreciate the power of photography and social media in connecting with people from all over the world.
You have a vast celebrity clientele from NBA stars to Hollywood’s elite, what’s their favourite Chris Fabregas piece?
It’s an honor to have my prints in the homes of celebrities. I work hard and do research to create the perfect fine art photograph that I think people will love. When people notice that and reach out to me it’s a huge blessing. Some of their favorites pieces are my motivational prints and city skylines.
When doing photography, how do you know when you have the perfect shot?
I know I’ve got the perfect shot when several elements align.
First, it’s often a gut feeling. There’s a sense of excitement and satisfaction when I know I’ve captured something special. It’s that ‘aha’ moment when everything comes together, and I feel a connection with the subject or scene.
Second, Does the image evoke the emotion or convey the story I want to tell? Does it capture the perfect moment in time where the viewer can get lost in the scene?
Third, it’s about technical aspects like focus, exposure, and composition. The image should be sharp, well-exposed, and composed in a way that guides the viewer’s eye to the subject. Also, I want the lighting, colors, and mood to all be in harmony.
Lastly, feedback from peers and mentors can also be valuable. Sometimes, a second opinion helps validate whether an image truly stands out.
Perfection in photography is subjective and can vary from person to person, so what’s perfect for me might not be the same for someone else.
We heard through the grapevine that you may be doing a pop-up, is this true?
I appreciate the interest around the idea of a pop-up. While I don’t have immediate plans for a pop-up, it’s something I’ve definitely considered for the future. Photography is a passion of mine, and I’m always exploring new avenues to share my work with a wider audience. A pop-up could be a fantastic way to showcase my collection and connect with art enthusiasts. So, stay tuned! While it’s not happening now, there’s a chance it might be on the horizon.
We first came to hear about you during the pandemic when you took over a NY billboard in Times Square, what was the thinking behind this?
When the COVID pandemic hit its peak, I launched an inspiring art campaign that featured a lion’s face along with the message, “Never let fear speak louder than your dreams.” The idea was to take over a Times Square billboard and spread positivity during challenging times.
The thought behind this was simple: I believe in the healing and motivational power of art, especially when the world is facing fear and uncertainty. Times Square, being a global icon, was the perfect spot to reach people from all walks of life.
My campaign had a straightforward message – even in the darkest hours, your dreams and aspirations are worth chasing. I aimed to encourage people to face their fears and pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles. It’s all about fostering hope and resilience during tough times, and it was heartwarming to see how this message resonated with so many.
What are your favorite lenses to use when you’re creating?
As a photographer, lens selection is a huge part of my creative process. Each lens has a unique character, and my choice usually depends on the project. Some go-to favorites include the 50mm prime lens for portraits and street photography, the 24-70mm wide-angle for landscapes and architecture and the 70-200mm for zoom. I also enjoy experimenting with specialty lenses like macro or extreme zoom. The choice ultimately revolves around the project’s requirements and the vision I aim to convey.
Name three things you can’t live without?
- Family: Family is at the core of my life and my biggest source of inspiration. They provide love, support, and a sense of purpose. The moments I share with them are something I will cherish for a lifetime.
- My Camera: As a photographer, my camera is an extension of myself. It’s the tool I use to capture the world’s beauty and the precious moments shared with my family. Whether it’s a professional shoot or a simple family outing, my camera is always by my side.
- Creativity: Whether through photography or other forms of expression, creativity is essential. It fuels my passion for photography and my ability to tell stories. It’s the driving force that keeps me exploring new horizons and pushing the boundaries of my art.
These three elements keep me inspired and motivated to continue my journey as a photographer and as a dedicated family member.
Who are your favorite creators and how have they inspired your work?
I’ve drawn inspiration from remarkable creators like Chris Burkard, Jimmy Chin, Peter McKinnon, and Chase Jarvis.
Chris Burkard’s nature photography encourages me to seek the extraordinary in the natural world, fostering a sense of purpose and appreciation for our environment.
Jimmy Chin’s work in extreme sports teaches me the value of pushing boundaries, capturing both exhilaration and serenity through patience and perseverance.
Peter McKinnon’s creative approach spurs me to explore new techniques and storytelling, while his enthusiasm impacts my own visual storytelling style.
Chase Jarvis, a versatile creator, shows the dynamic potential of photography and highlights the importance of creativity, community, and making a positive impact in my work.
These creators, along with the countless creative photographers in my community of Seattle, have shaped my photography journey. They help me expand my skills and convey meaningful stories with a fresh perspective.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on expanding my photography to include acrylic fine art prints. While I’ve been selling my prints on metal, canvas, and inkjet, I’m excited to explore the unique and vibrant qualities of acrylic as a medium for displaying my work. Acrylic prints are known for their stunning clarity, depth, and color vibrancy, which can bring a new dimension to my photography. I’m excited to add this selection for my customers.
Where can people purchase your art?
People can purchase my art online at https://chrisfabregasfineartprints.com