Photoflex

My name is Chris Barnes and I'm a photographer.

I remember the very first day I fell in love with the camera. It was Christmas, 1970. My Uncle Bob (actual name), being one of those avid techno-hip kind of people, as well a very gifted photographer, had just given me a beautiful Zeiss Ikon camera. It was this big heavy metal contraption with knobs and dials all over. As he began to explain to me the complex relationship between exposure and depth of field, my mind drifted to daydreams of photography. I imagined the unlimited potential; the power to capture the everyday in a swiftly changing life, and to be able to share these moments with everyone. It was a moving revelation for me. I was still a young kid then, but it was at that exact moment when I realized what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

Since then, I've had the privilege of collaborating with so many amazing contemporary creative minds; working on editorial projects, corporate communication designs, product catalogues, and a wide variety of other assignments. My photography style is honest and straightforward - I try to keep my compositions natural, and have often found that the greatest impact is possible when allowing the composition to stand as it is, without attempting to force the message through. When lighting, I generally try to use the minimal amount that is required to define my subject. Usually, one main light source with a second fill or reflector is enough. I also use a variety of light modifiers, looking for each to provide a specific feeling.

For other types of images, I have also composed subjects in a 'found' style, enabling the simplicity of the composition itself to convey deeper undertones of irony or serendipity. I also particularly enjoy challenging the frame by using an abundance of negative space to create an extended visual pause.

I've managed complete large press productions, from dealing with the first soul-searching steps in developing the raw creative input, all the way to final proofing and a finished printed product, winning accolades for the final designs. This experience has given me the ability to understand and control how an image will reveal itself on the printed page.

I also teach a digital photography course at a College in Toronto, so I am always working to stay up to date with the latest technologies. It's a privilege to be able to share the passion and excitement of photography that I have carried with me throughout my life. Thanks, Uncle Bob!