#chris thomaidis

The Regulars: An Interview with Chris Thomaidis

Photographer: Chris Thomaidis

Studio / Company:Chris Thomaidis Photography

Type of Photos Taken: Portraits, Location, Still Life for corporate and editorial clients

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I was born in Northern Greece and have lived in Toronto since the age of four. I remember very little of my childhood. My sister describes me as a quiet and contemplative toddler. They would leave me under an olive tree in the village square, where I happily played and observed for hours. Nothing has changed, except for the type of tree. I started photographing professionally 34 years ago. I was a creative director for a few years in the 80’s. Had stock photo representation through a local agency, then with Tony Stone Images which morphed into Getty Images in the early 90’s. I continue to pursue commercial work and have been fortunate enough to work with exceptionally creative people.  

What drew you into photography?

In high school I was hoping to become an architect. When I was 21 a friend and I went on a weekend motorcycle trip. I borrowed my brother-in-law’s camera, a Canon ftb loaded with a roll of colour negative film. I didn’t know how to use it. He showed me how to focus and match the needle for exposure. It was fun. A few years later I lived with artist friends north of Toronto. It was with their encouragement that I started photographing on purpose.

What is your philosophy regarding photo taking?

Even when I don’t have a camera with me, I still look at the world as though I’m looking through one. It’s the way my eyes are connected to my brain. I can’t turn it off. More an artistic illness than a philosophy.

Any personal rules you stick to?

Always be prepared and relax.

Tell us about a photographic challenge you overcame?

I just liked taking and looking at pictures and had very little interest in the physics or mechanics of photography. It took quite a few years for me to understand the basics. Once I understood them, they became second nature.

What is one thing you could not go into a shoot without?

A second camera.

What gear do you prefer to shoot with?

I have owned and used every format from 127mm to 4x5. Early in my professional career, my main kit was four Canon F1s and every Canon lens from 14mm - 300mm. Today I use Canon Dslrs, 1Ds3 & 5D3 and for the first time ever, a zoom lens. 24 -70mm being my go to lens. Oddly enough, 75% of the images I shoot are taken in the 35 - 55mm range. I could probably get by with a fixed 35mm lens. Favourite camera ever was the Mamiya RZ Proll with a 110mm.

When did you first come to Downtown Camera?

Many years ago, when Mike and Mary were proprietors on Victoria Street. You never just bought something from them, you learned something new every time you walked into the store.

Any advice to fresh photographers?

The more you shoot, the clearer becomes the reason you take photographs. Be ruthless when editing your work. Be inspired, not just by photography but by everything around you. Earth is a pretty amazing place.