Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chris Facey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Chris , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
It’s tough, honestly. I still find new ways to traverse that situation when it comes up now. I make sure that I understand that I am IN the room. That means I’ve clearly done something good enough to be here. So I carry myself as such. I tell myself “I am supposed to be in this room. I earned my position in this room and my word is just as valuable as anyone else in this room.” Once I feel that way, its a walk in the park.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m Chris Facey, and I’ve had a journey that’s taken me from the streets of Brooklyn to the vibrant community of Raleigh, NC. I’ve always been fascinated by how impactful moments shape the world around us, and I draw inspiration from legendary photographers like Gordon Parks and W. Eugene Smith.
What drives me is the power of photography to shed light on important stories. My lens is focused on the African-American community, where I aim to capture the essence of lives lived and the challenges faced. Racial injustices and stereotypes often demand our attention, and I try to approach these subjects with sensitivity and nuance.
To amplify these narratives, I’ve launched projects like “The Dad Duty Project,” where I challenge harmful stereotypes about absent fathers, and “Even In Death,” which brings attention to the preservation of an African American cemetery. These stories matter, and I’m committed to bringing them to the forefront.
My journey has led me to earn a BFA from The School of Visual Arts and to serve as a US Army veteran. It’s been incredibly humbling to see my work featured in prestigious publications like The New Yorker, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. Plus, having the chance to exhibit my art in galleries such as The Golden Belt Gallery and The Bronx River Art Center has been a true honor.
For me, photography is more than just capturing images. It’s a form of visual activism, a tool for sparking conversations, evoking emotions, and driving real social change. I believe in the power of images to ignite vital dialogue, and I’m dedicated to harnessing that power in my storytelling.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First and foremost, an understanding of composition and lighting has been crucial. Learning how to frame a scene and “read” light. Second, the ability to connect with subjects on a personal level has been essential. Building trust and rapport allows for more honest and authentic images. Lastly, a dedication to continuous learning and experimentation has helped my work grow.
As for advice, you have to have unwavering confidence in yourself and your craft. Also, always know your “why”. It’s important to understand why you’re doing something.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes! I am currently looking for more black fathers to photograph for my ” Dad Duty Project”. It’s a beautiful project that celebrates black fathers and the importance of their role in a child’s life. If you or somebody you know is a black father who should be celebrated, reach out to me on my Instagram account, @coco.butter.shutter/@thedaddutyproject or email me at [email protected].
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cocobuttershutter.com
- Instagram: @coco.butter.shutter / @thedaddutyproject
- Twitter: @cocobuttrshuttr
