Chris Ewen Crosby - Photographer | Educator | Speaker
ABOUT
Chris is a photographer and educator based in Long Beach, CA. A desire to teach, combined with a love for the outdoors and photography, has shaped his career as a landscape photographer and educator. When not sharing his photography knowledge, Chris can be found exploring nature’s beauty in his endless search for perfect light and discovery.
HISTORY
Born and raised in Seal Beach, CA, Chris developed a deep love for the ocean and the outdoors during his childhood exploration of California. Active in sports and outdoor activities, his adventures spanned California’s oceans, mountains, and deserts. These formative years sculpted his appreciation for the earth's beauty and the joy of exploration.
Seal Beach, CA
Chris spent many days of his childhood surfing these waves
SEEDED VISIONS
Exposed early to nature through books featuring Ansel Adams’ work, literary journals like National Geographic, films by Warren Miller, and stories of his parents’ travels, Chris’s vision of the world was forever shaped. While these influences had a lasting effect, he only fully realized their impact later in life.
FINDING HIS WAY
After high school, Chris attended college but struggled to find a fulfilling path, changing majors several times before landing in business. His early adult life centered around retail management roles with companies such as JCPenney and Ross Dress for Less. However, something was missing—nature. Chris longed for the sun’s warm rays, fresh air, and freedom from routine. The days of fluorescent lights and corporate life were coming to a close. Change was in the air.
DISCOVERY
Encouraged by his brother, Chris purchased his first DSLR in 2009 to document his hiking expeditions and his personal journey. Initially exploring basic photography techniques in his surroundings, Chris soon carried his camera everywhere and began exploring more of Greater Los Angeles. A few years later, a realization struck—his childhood love of nature was still important to him. This sparked a focus on landscapes and honing his craft.
“HELLO WORLD”
In April 2015, Chris joined Instagram, creating the account @CECPhotos to share his photography journey. Inspiration and competition fueled his growth as he shaped his vision and discovered what photography meant to him. Through social connections, he met photographers, friends, and collaborators. As Chris developed various photography techniques, requests for help with others’ craft increased. Teaching emerged as a way to pursue his passion. By early 2018, Chris had transitioned from his day job to full-time photography, never looking back.
PRESENT DAY
Chris now offers workshops to help others improve their craft across Southern California and beyond. Sharing knowledge has always been a part of him, inherited from his mother’s teaching tradition. He believes nothing is worth experiencing unless shared with others. Chris is also passionate about social responsibility and practicing good stewardship while enjoying natural lands and parks. Outside of teaching and shooting, he provides professional services including sessions, weddings, real estate, and content creation.
Partners
OFFICIAL Ambassador and reseller
Instructor and Lecturer
Leave No Trace Certified
CPR/AED/First Aid Certified by The American Red Cross