A conversation with Chris House. San Diego film maker, photographer and designer.
1. Every artist has their catalyst that influenced them to begin their creative journey. Do you remember what urged you to begin yours?
When I was a kid, I said I wanted to be a million different things. Music was the first thing I fell in love with as a creative, since 13 I've been playing guitar. Those formative years when I was young really set me up to enjoy so many creative things. Being the only creative in my family, it's kinda been a self spark type of thing. My parents always supported it. I'm really thankful for that.
2. What are your inspirations when it comes to your creative style, are there specific genres that you're more interested in? Is there a specific aesthetic you're particularly drawn to?
Inspiration seems to come and go for me these days. Street/Documentary photography was one of the first genres of photography I fell in love with. It's still the main thing that makes me most fulfilled. However, these days so many genres inspire me and make me fulfilled. Aesthetically, I'm drawn to simple beauty in photos and videos and design work. Minimalism and well-thought-out compositions really draw my eye.
3. You choose Fujifilm as your primary camera equipment for photography, are you loyal to a single manufacturer? What would you say to those who believe gear makes the photographer?
I am not loyal to one brand. Fujifilm came at an interesting time in my life. When I first moved to San Diego, I was shooting Sony. I wanted something to fulfil creative needs in a small package, which lead me to grabbing the Fujifilm X100F. I was hooked right away. Fuji is an incredible system, and I've had a blast shooting with it. Having the X100 cameras, the limitations in that system make me feel super creative. I'm thinking of going back to Sony for professional work and Fuji for personal. I also have Blackmagic for cinema work. Overall I'm a big proponent of not having the "does gear matter" debate the creative industry seems to go through every few months or when a new camera drops. I simply ask is the camera I chose the right tool for what I want to do. Cameras are simply tools to get a job done. One system works for someone and another for someone else. Your eye is gonna make the camera you choose come to life and feel like an extension of you vs just a mini computer in your hands.
4. Would you say there are any common themes that run through your creative portfolio? Is there a specific aesthetic you're particularly drawn to?
I think the common theme in my work is moody yet simple shots. In some ways that's a reflection of myself haha. I've always loved capturing simple scenes or normal people and capturing them in a way that evokes emotion. I want my work to remind people that there's beauty in everything, even if the world is dark and heavy.
5. As digital technology begins to play a heavier part in the process and distribution of modern artists, how do you feel this affects creatives when building their portfolio?
I think creatives often fall into the comparison trap, which is something I've struggled with too. These days we see folks we look up to, or our peers having success and wonder when our time comes. Creatives seem to think success is overnight, cause that's what social media conditions you to think. But building work is a slow and long process. In the digital world, we should slow down and enjoy the journey, the destination will always be there. But what you learn and who you become on the way is what matters.
6. For many creatives, social media plays a large role in their careers. How would you describe its impact on your creativity?
I'd say it's definitely helped my career grow and build my network. I'm not sure where I'd be without it, but I'm trying to also find ways to not let growth just happen on social media. I want to connect in real life.
7. Do you consider the work you create to be art? Can you explain your answer?
I think art is a loaded word. Mostly because it's subjective. I aim to create art, but I feel like I miss the mark sometimes haha.
8. Do you have any creative projects you're currently working on or excited about for the future?
I wish I could share but have an exciting book dropping next spring.
You can find more of Chris on Instagram @chrishouse or view his commercial work at www.chrishouseco.com
