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

Hi Chris, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
I find happiness in every stage of the image creation process—from the initial concept to the final edit. Each step is an opportunity to blend creativity with technical skill. What truly brings me joy is seeing the final image not only meet but exceed the original vision. That sense of accomplishment and artistic fulfillment is deeply satisfying. I also truly enjoy being around airplanes and the community that flies and supports them.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My lifelong passion for aviation and photography was sparked while growing up in the Midwest during the 1960’s and 70’s. I vividly recall the sights and sounds of Starfighters, Phantoms, and Super Sabres thundering over my backyard—an experience that left a lasting impression and ignited a fascination with flight. That passion led me to earn my private pilot license in 1985, a personal milestone that deepened my connection to aviation.

In the early 1980s, I purchased my first SLR camera and began teaching myself photography. Airplanes quickly became a favorite subject, and by 2006, I started pitching my work to aviation-related businesses and submitting images to magazines. The journey was met with countless rejections, but persistence paid off. I eventually began receiving media credentials and assignments from aviation-themed publications—marking the moment my photography truly “took off.”

The transition to fully digital Nikon SLRs in 2008 accelerated my growth, allowing me to refine my technical skills and explore creative possibilities without the constraints of film. With the fundamentals in place, I embraced experimentation—playing with exposure, composition, and lighting to capture compelling images. I learned to move all around the subject. I’ll shoot close up and then pull back, try high and low perspectives, and work a full 360 degrees when possible. That willingness to explore and adapt often reveals surprises and the most striking shots. Above all, I’ve learned not to fear experimentation—it’s often the key to discovering something special.

A major turning point came when I launched my website and began curating photo galleries that showcased the full range of my work. These galleries became more than just a portfolio—they evolved into a dynamic platform for storytelling, brand-building, and client engagement. By organizing my images into themed collections, I created a visual experience that resonated with aviation enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals alike.

The impact was immediate and measurable. My online presence led to increased visibility, inquiries for media assignments, and sales of wall art, prints, and digital images. I also established a storefront on Fine Art America / Pixels, where my photographs are available as prints and aviation-themed gifts. These platforms have helped transform my passion into a sustainable business, while expanding my reach to a global audience.

Through it all, my goal remains the same: to capture the grace and power of flying machines, and to promote a deeper appreciation for how aviation has shaped our world. Whether through a dramatic airshow moment or a quiet portrait of a vintage aircraft, I try to create images that evoke emotion, spark curiosity, and celebrate the enduring spirit of flight.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
That’s a tough one—Atlanta’s such a popular destination that most visitors have already explored the city. So when friends and family come to town, I like to take them a bit off the beaten path. The North Georgia Mountains are always a favorite, with scenic drives and charming towns like Dahlonega and Helen. We’ll often stop to explore local waterfalls, which offer a peaceful escape and a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Depending on their interests and the season, I also enjoy taking guests to the fall festivals in Suwanee and Duluth. These events combine great food, local art, and live entertainment with a strong sense of community—perfect for experiencing the heart and soul of the area.

All of these also offer great opportunities for photography.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m deeply grateful to my wife and family. I’m truly blessed to have loved ones who not only tolerate but actively encourage and support my passion for aviation and photography. My wife Carla, in particular, is often my toughest critic and most insightful advisor—and I’ve learned to listen closely, because she’s usually right!

Website: https://www.aviationbuff.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/public-profile/settings?trk=d_flagship3_profile_self_view_public_profile

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AviationbuffPhotography/

Other: https://pixels.com/profiles/chris-buff

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.