A little about me... Chris Johannsen Miller, photographer

Hi!  I'm Chris.  The photographer behind all the images on this site.  I am new to blogging so if you have some questions, input, or comments, please feel free to do so below or send me an email... chris@openshutter.com

A quick rundown on my photographic history...I have been photographing portraits since 1991.  I opened my studio in 1997 as The Open Shutter in Norwalk, Ohio.  I received my Masters Degree and Craftsman Degree from the Professional Photographers of America from education, image excellence and sharing my craft to my colleagues.  I have specialized in high school senior portraits, family and children portraits.  I am now, which I LOVE, creating family memories in amazing destinations.  

I am a very eclectic photographer.  I often say "I shoot squirrels with my canon."... meaning if it catches my attention I am probably going to photograph it with my camera.  I am I am also dabbling in a variety of different subject matter for my personal projects... landscape, skyscapes, macro, aerial (drone Part 107 certified since 2017), ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) and decayed subjects.  But if a bison or owl crosses my path, I will definitely try my best to capture it... with my camera!   You can see these images at

www.cjimagery.com 

or in the tab marked CJ IMAGERY

I photograph God's blessings. From your baby's tiny toes to the skies with dancing auroras and so much in between... they are all gifts from above and much to be thankful for.  Always Seeking the Light.  In 2024 my favorite blessing was becoming a grandma.

I am a daughter, sister, mom, grandma, dog mom, the other half of "Scott & Chris", food & beverage explorer, hiker, I am an adventurer at heart.  After leaving Ohio, I packed up my little camper I call The Bug, and drove to Alaska which a lived and explored for 5 amazing years.  I learned many valuable lessons there about photography, life, nature, God, family, self protection, friends and so much more.

I now live in Montana, another great place to live.  My younger self thought I was a beach girl... until I visited the mountains.  Now when the mountains call... I get there as soon as possible.

So... if you have gotten to view some of my images, you know a bit about me... they all are a piece of me, my vision and my journey... all with a little story.  

My philosophy is "Life is more about the journey than the destination, be sure to take time to enjoy the path God has put you on!"  So be sure to smell the roses, dance in the rain, fill your pockets with pretty rocks, hug your family, catch a snowflake on your tongue... Treasure all the moments and always give thanks.

I am looking forward to our paths crossing.  - chris.