As long as SoCal-based photographer Chris Bishow can remember, hes been enthralled with photography. In fact, its a passion with roots deep in his childhood. For Chris, his lifes dream of capturing imagery all started with a blue and yellow Fisher Price 110 film camera when he was 8 years old. Within no time, he wore that camera out and graduated to a vintage Konica camera with a broken light meter. This forced Chris to learn the hard way, which he often remarks has proved to be the better way.

Looking back with a sense of nostalgia and awe, Chris says of his early days, I cant believe that I was shooting completely manually on a film camera when I was 12 years old! Chris passion drove him to keep learning and growing in his craft. His goal now, as it always has been, is to be simply outstanding in his chosen profession.

Along the way, Chris was fortunate enough to meet someone who would become a mentor and good friend. A longtime surfer as well as photographer, Chris had a chance meeting on a certain south Orange County beach with Larry "Flame" Moore, former photo editor for Surfing magazine. Although his time with Larry was short, he made a veritable impression on Chris. "Larry taught me to be the best photographer that I can be, but more importantly, he taught me the importance of relationships." Since his passing, he left his mark on many, especially Chris. He carries the lessons and inspiring conversations he shared with Larry with him to this day.

Chris philosophy in front of and behind the camera is to help others and to give every person the individual attention that they deserve. This is why he loves being involved at his church, within his community and as a certified Paramedic. His willingness to help others spills into his photography as he creates a personal relationship with everyone he photographs. In his spare time, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife, Karen, surfing, reading, mountain biking, and traveling every chance he gets.

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