Slow Your Focus

Videography by Chandler Williams/modusphotography.com

Slow and intentional is Chandler Williams’ approach to photography.

Having over 20 years behind the lens has taught him that art is the ultimate hustle. But, about four years ago, when he picked up a Phase One medium format camera, he learned there were new challenges to meet. He’s hardly put it down since.

In experienced hands, the medium format enhances image detail down to the finest wrinkles of one’s face or the intricate webbing of a leaf’s veins. For Williams, there’s no better way to shoot. The challenge of slower autofocus and burst rate may just be his favorite aspect. It forces him to anchor in the moment.

“It allowed me to think differently after the many years of having a camera in my hand,” Williams said. “If I’m able to think differently, then I can create more freely.”

Specializing in landscape photography, Williams enjoys the challenge of underwater and astronomy shots and finds comfort and ease shooting favorite locations including 30A’s Western Lake. Photo by Chandler Williams / modusphotography.com

Sitting in Williams’ Modus Gallery lounge in Santa Rosa Beach, the photographer looked at a favorite print of his, a rare shot using 1990s medium format underwater film. There was no on-screen review between shots.

“Probably the hardest shoot I’ve ever done in my life; that’s raw, that’s untouched,” Williams said, nodding to the image from his Sirens & Silver series, in which a nude model ascends from water depths.

Today, he finds himself addicted to that mindful focus and often shoots at 30A’s Western Lake when he needs centering.

“It’s absolutely beautiful,” he said. “The light’s always changing, so that’s an attractive lure to me. It’s simple — I can always pull up to it. Kind of like an old friend.”

Still, he’s always seeking a new and exciting challenge. For years, he’s traveled the world, shooting sometimes for himself but more often for nonprofit organizations.

“The travel element has always been very fundamental,” Williams said. “I’m able to have these intimate experiences just by enjoying the culture and being part of it. It’s grounding in so many ways; it’s human connection. For me to create that is pretty cool, to bring that back and share that experience for nonprofits.”

But the hustle has kept him busy, too. He’s shot weddings and portraits, contracted commercial work for national brands like Lululemon, Audi USA, Leinenkugel’s beer and sometimes shoots using elevated architectural photography for high-end resort names, including Hilton and Hyatt.

Williams’ elevated style has attracted big brands such as Hyatt Grand Boulevard. Today, he’s focused on giving back through art, often partnering with nonprofits. Photo by Chandler Williams / modusphotography.com

“As long as I’m learning, as long as it’s challenging me, then I can keep interest in it.”

His adaptive nature allowed him to gain unique industry experience. His specialties and interests range from landscape and travel photography to underwater and astronomy shots.

“I would like to think that I have my own style; I don’t have a style from another location or from another photographer that I’ve seen travel,” Williams said. “That’s why I’m not on the Instagram echo chamber. I want my own stuff.”

Individuality has driven him to always shoot for himself first.

“It’s always been for myself, and the money’s been secondary,” Williams said.

Creating his own path in an oversaturated industry proved difficult for some years, but Williams always enjoyed the challenge.

Visiting Iceland, Chandler Williams sought unique nature shots. Here, Williams is pictured beneath the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall. Its name is Icelandic for “canyon dweller,” the cavernous Gljúfrabúi often falls forgotten to its big sister, Seljalandsfoss falls. Despite its shy nature, Gljúfrabúi offers a special treat for those willing to journey below. Photo by Chandler Williams / modusphotography.com

“I was working 60–70 hours a week in property management,” he said. “But my photography is what kept me sane.”

His best advice to up-and-coming creatives: Identify your passion, and seek out the challenge in it. And don’t quit your day job.

“Find a primary occupation, and grow your creative outlet,” Williams advised. “It will allow you to be more creative because you don’t have to worry about the finances. At some point, on a successful level, you’ll be able to be as creative as you want.”

Visit ModusPhotography.com/Iceland to view more photos and a video of the Nordic island nation through Williams’ lens.