Chris Gampat: A Visionary Leader in Photography Journalism
Chris Gampat, a name synonymous with photography journalism and innovation, stands as a beacon of inspiration in the visual storytelling world. As the Editor-in-Chief, Founder, and Publisher of The Phoblographer, Gampat has not only carved a niche for himself but has also revolutionized the way photography is perceived and consumed. His remarkable journey, marked by a unique blend of journalistic acumen, technological proficiency, and an unwavering passion for photography, has transformed him into a leading voice in the industry. Despite facing the challenge of legal blindness, Gampat’s vision for The Phoblographer and the broader photography community remains remarkably clear and impactful.
Gampat’s career trajectory is a testament to his multi-faceted talents. Starting in the realms of men’s lifestyle and technology, he honed his skills as a writer, editor, and reviewer, amassing over 15 years of experience in the field. This background in technology journalism laid the groundwork for his foray into the world of photography, where he seamlessly merged his tech savviness with his artistic sensibilities. His insightful product guides, educational articles, in-depth product reviews, and engaging interviews with prominent photographers have become hallmarks of his editorial work. Simultaneously, Gampat has cultivated his own photographic practice, exploring conceptual photography and creating captivating images that challenge viewers’ perspectives. His "Secret Order of the Slice" project, a testament to his creative vision, achieved viral acclaim, further solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the photography world.
Gampat’s journey began in 2008, concurrently working in tech and art journalism at esteemed publications like PCMag, Magnum Photos, and Geek.com. This early exposure to diverse media landscapes provided him with a well-rounded understanding of the evolving media ecosystem. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create a platform dedicated to photography, he founded The Phoblographer in 2009. His subsequent experiences at PDN and Photography Bay further enriched his knowledge and prepared him for the challenges of running a successful online publication. Gampat’s decision to leave his day job as the Social Media Content Developer at B&H Photo in the early 2010s marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to fully dedicate himself to The Phoblographer and its growth.
Under Gampat’s leadership, The Phoblographer has evolved into a leading resource for photographers of all levels. His forward-thinking approach to publishing, characterized by the ethical implementation of AI and innovative affiliate income strategies, has set new standards for the industry. A staunch advocate for diversity in photography, Gampat has consistently championed inclusivity and representation within the community. His commitment to ethical practices extends beyond The Phoblographer to his work with non-profit organizations like American Photographic Arts, where he has diligently worked to secure benefits for photographers. Gampat’s diverse skillset, encompassing SEO, app development, content planning, ethics management, photography, and WordPress expertise, has enabled him to navigate the complexities of the digital age and steer The Phoblographer towards continued success.
Gampat’s academic foundation played a crucial role in shaping his career. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Adelphi University with a degree in Communications in Journalism in 2009 equipped him with the essential writing, communication, and critical thinking skills that have served him well throughout his career. However, Gampat’s commitment to lifelong learning has been equally important. He has continuously adapted to the ever-changing media landscape, acquiring expertise in social media, SEO, app development, e-commerce development, and HTML. This adaptability has allowed him to stay ahead of the curve and leverage new technologies to enhance his work and the reach of The Phoblographer.
At the heart of Gampat’s passion for photography lies a deep fascination with the creative process. He finds immense satisfaction in creating conceptual works that captivate viewers and ignite their imaginations. While the demands of running The Phoblographer often limit his personal photography pursuits, his artistic spirit continues to inform his editorial work. His dedication to photography extends beyond his own creative endeavors to fostering a vibrant and supportive community of photographers. Gampat’s best photography tip, "Don’t do it in post-production when you can do it in-camera," reflects his pragmatic approach to photography and emphasizes the importance of capturing the essence of a moment in the most authentic way possible.
Chris Gampat’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. His vision for The Phoblographer, coupled with his unwavering dedication to the photography community, has established him as a true leader in the field. As Gampat continues to shape the future of photography journalism, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring photographers and journalists alike, demonstrating that with dedication and vision, even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome. His unique perspective, shaped by his own experiences with legal blindness, adds a layer of depth and empathy to his work, enabling him to connect with his audience on a profound level and champion the power of visual storytelling. Gampat’s legacy is one of innovation, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication to the art of photography, ensuring that the future of the industry remains vibrant and accessible to all.