Meet Chuck Townsend | Certified Professional Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chuck Townsend and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chuck, what are you inspired by?
My inspiration comes from seeing what is often overlooked or finding art in unexpected situations and locations. Any number of photographers or artists could be presented with the same scene, and each would portray it differently. Some might incorporate the entire scene, while others would focus on a particular area or aspect. Some might even obscure the scene entirely. This variety in how I perceive a scene and highlight something that others may have missed inspires me.

For example, with my cityscapes and abstract photography, many people don’t take the time to appreciate their surroundings. Through composition and creativity, I aim to create images that will cause people to pause, look, and enjoy their everyday environments. Some of these images are captured in ordinary locations like bus stops or transit stations, where people frequently pass through but don’t notice the details.

I’ve always loved photography and have recently been focusing on improving my skills through the Professional Photographers of Colorado and the Professional Photographers of America. My time there has reinforced my passion for photography and my desire to incorporate it into my life. I’ve challenged myself to carry a camera everywhere I go and to intentionally observe my surroundings for potential compositions. Some of my recent favorites were captured while sitting in rush-hour traffic.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My creative career started relatively late in life. I was introduced to photography many years ago when a friend gave me an old Canon AE1 35mm camera. They gave me some pointers and sent me on my way. I dabbled a little here and there and tried to learn photography, but life and work took up most of my time (this was before YouTube and the resources we have today).

I focused on my corporate career growth, pursuing multiple degrees in business and leadership. The pandemic really rekindled my creative focus. With all the free time I had, I started spending time on YouTube and blogs to learn more about photography. As my kids started to graduate high school, I had more time for myself, so I started focusing on photography again.

I’m working on a degree in Digital Photography and have joined the Professional Photographers of America and the Professional Photographers of Colorado. My membership in the Professional Photographers of Colorado opened many more learning opportunities for me, including mentoring and educational resources that led me to get my Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) certification.

All of that to say, I took a very non-traditional path to get to my creative career. I still have a corporate job and run my business in my free time. I’m a perpetual student and love to learn. I would say that the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I should never stop learning or experimenting! I love to photograph just about anything. I find joy and peace when I’m behind the camera creating, and I love to see the impact my images have on people.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is one of my favorite things to do! My challenge is that I often overload people with suggestions and I’m probably a little too ambitious about planning what can actually fit into a week.

Food is another one of my passions (yes, I spent some time in Culinary school as well), and Colorado has some amazing places to eat! I would start in Morrison and incorporate some favorite places to eat and photograph at the same time. The Fort has amazing food, and being so close to Red Rocks Amphitheater, it makes a great option for food and fun.

In Denver, I would start at Avanti Food Hall for the variety and the view, and then spend time showing several of my favorite skyline spots. A cool place for drinks that I recently found was Stranahans Whiskey Distillery and Cocktail Bar. The tour was great and goes into some cool history as well.

A trip to Boulder would include a stroll on Pearl Street Mall for Street Photography or a hike at Chautauqua Park with a stop at either Le French Cafe for crepes and pastries or Rincon Argentino for Empanadas and Argentinean sandwiches.

Longmont is my town, and we have a great brewery scene and restaurants. 300 Suns Brewing and Oskar Blues Tasty Weasel Tap Room are great for drinks. The food options are endless in town. I would definitely suggest Teocali; try the carnitas or carne asada. Another option would be Sumo Sushi; try the Volcano roll or any of their special rolls. Afterward, a walk down our quaint main street or a stroll at Golden Ponds for birding and mountain views can’t be beaten.

The final stop would have to be Fort Collins, with a trip to Get Plattered Charcuterie (be sure to order ahead as they are made on demand), followed by a picnic lunch and flower photography at the CSU Trial Garden.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Professional Photographers of Colorado and the Professional Photographers of America have had a significant impact on my success and my desire to pursue my passion for photography.

Two years ago, I was searching for a community and a group that could offer guidance and support. I took a chance and registered for the annual conference with the Professional Photographers of Colorado. This decision has led to friendships, personal growth, and a sense of community that I had been seeking. This group has welcomed me and has been an invaluable resource for my development.

Website: https://www.chucktownsendphotography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chucktownsendphotography/

Image Credits
Chuck Townsend