skip to main content
Chris Whonsetler
Chris Whonsetler
01:18

Chris Whonsetler

Chris Whonsetler Photography

Indianapolis, IN USA

"They’re not just hiring me because of the camera I'm using. They’re hiring me for my experience. They’re hiring me for my vision. They’re hiring you because of what you bring to the table."

Career Roadmap

Chris's work combines: Art, Business, and Being Creative

See more careers and stories that connect to your interests.

Take Roadmap Quiz

Day In The Life

Owner & Lead Photographer

I capture diverse commercial visuals, from staff portraits to dynamic product shots.

01:27

Day In The Life Of A Commercial Photographer

My Day to Day

In the bustling space of my central Indiana studio, I capture the essence of products and brands. While a significant portion of my work—up to half—is done here, the rest finds me on location, adapting to the diverse needs of businesses. Whether it’s detailing watches or racehorses, each day brings new subjects and challenges. My role is to visualize a business’s story through imagery, keeping my work fresh and engaging. This variety fuels my creativity, ensuring no two days are alike.

Skills & Education

Advice for getting started

People assume that you need to be in a big city hot spot to be successful in this field. It's true that I could move to New York and niche down to fashion photography to make more money. But that doesn't align with my values. It doesn't appeal to me to pursue something that specific that hard. I've found success in Indiana with a slower lifestyle where I get to photograph a variety of subjects. You don't need to follow what everyone else considers success. You get to decide what works for you.

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

  • Bachelor's Degree

    Photography and Graphic Design

    Indiana Wesleyan University

Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Owner & Lead Photographer:

Bachelor's Degree: Business, General

Learn more about different paths to this career

Life & Career Milestones

My path in life has been direct

  • 1.

    I discovered my passion for photography during middle school through a 4-H project.

  • 2.

    I started college with dual majors in chemistry and photography, but soon realized photography was my true calling.

  • 3.

    In order to fund my photography ventures and build my network, I balanced multiple jobs, including a stint at Starbucks.

  • 4.

    I eventually transitioned from general photography to specialize in commercial projects, focusing on business needs.

  • 5.

    I learned to refine my craft and business skills the hard way, through trial, error, and continuous self-education.

  • 6.

    I built a diverse portfolio by embracing every opportunity, from family portraits to commercial shoots.

  • 7.

    I’ve now established a stable career in Indiana, valuing a slower pace that matches my personal and professional style.

Defining Moments

How I responded to discouragement

  • THE NOISE

    Messages from Society in general:

    You need to go to Los Angeles or New York in order to be successful as a photographer.

  • How I responded:

    People assume that you need to be in a big city hot spot to be successful in this field. It's true that I could move to New York and niche down to fashion photography to make more money. But that doesn't align with my values. It doesn't appeal to me to pursue something that specific that hard. I've found success in Indiana with a slower lifestyle where I get to photograph a variety of subjects. You don't need to follow what everyone else considers success. You get to decide what works for you.

Related Leaders

No related leaders found