Behind the Lens with Chris Gamez: Capturing Culture, Community, and Creativity
TheMovementLA x SoleFolks Juneteenth Fashion Show – Leimert Park
When it comes to storytelling through photography, Chris Gamez doesn’t just take pictures—he documents energy, emotion, and experience. As the creative force behind GMZ Photography, Chris brought a powerful perspective to TheMovementLA’s Juneteenth Fashion Show in Leimert Park, capturing a day that was equal parts fashion, art, and cultural celebration.
“What drew me in was the promise of great energy,” Chris shared. “And what better occasion than a Juneteenth celebration in Leimert Park? It was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.”
Through his lens, the event was “joyful”—a vibrant fusion of fashion, community, and cultural pride. From the models’ walk to the crowd’s cheers, Chris had a front-row seat to every pulse of the day.
“As a photographer, holding that position is a true privilege,” he reflected.
Navigating a high-energy show with multiple designers, live art, and street-level activations required adaptability—and Chris delivered.
“The only things I finalize are charged batteries and versatile focal lengths,” he said. “Everything else, I let the moment guide me.”
One such standout moment: models stepping off the stage and into the crowd, blurring the lines between performer and participant. Chris was perfectly positioned—capturing the models in motion with the audience as his backdrop, creating a visual story with rare depth and emotion.
When it came to designer sets, Chris’s approach was rooted in respect for each creative’s individuality.
“I let the differences shine through,” he explained.
From the bold swimwear of Lipstick and Labels, which required a balance of refinement and strength, to Thread Haus, whose pieces aligned with his personal aesthetic, Chris made sure every frame reflected intention.
The presence of live art only deepened the storytelling. One unforgettable image?
Thread Haus raising his fist toward the crowd while a freshly painted model by John Born mirrored the gesture.
“I felt incredibly lucky to be in the right spot at the right moment,” he recalled.
Another standout shot captured John mid-brushstroke, his jewelry and tattoos in crisp detail.
“It could easily double as an ad,” Chris said, highlighting how art and fashion coexisted so effortlessly that day.
When asked what made TheMovementLA stand out, Chris was quick to answer:
“The mix of professionalism and passion. The pride and purpose in the air were undeniable.”
And if he had to sum up the entire experience in three words?
For. The. People.
Editor: Courtney Redwine
Photographer: Chris Gamez | GMZ-Photography.com
📸 Instagram: @gmz_photo_213
📍 Event: TheMovementLA x SoleFolks Juneteenth Fashion Show – Leimert Park
📲 IG: @TheMovementLA
🎙 Media: @TMLAradio
