Chas is a Canon “Explorer of Light”, a small prestigious group of the world's leading professional photographers, providing insight, inspiration, and education to future generations of creative photographers.

Since founding “Shoot The Light,” an instructional photographic workshop and series, in the mid-nineties, Chas has cemented his place in the world as one of the top wildlife photographers working today. His dynamic and inspirational teaching has also made him one of the most sought-after educators and keynote speakers in his field.

The depth and diversity of his background make him truly exceptional in the world of wildlife photography.

Chas diverse work experience over his 35 years as a professional photographer provides workshop participants and seminar attendees with an unparalleled resource.

Chas' work has been celebrated internationally with over 40 prestigious awards for superior photographic competence demonstrated through photographic competition, advanced education, and service to the profession. His images are recognized internationally for their lighting, composition, and attention to detail and have appeared in many publications worldwide including National Geographic, Outdoor Photographer, Popular Photography, National Parks, Discover Diving, Smithsonian, Professional Photographer, Birder's World, Birding, Nature Photographer, EOS, Digital PhotoPro, and more.

When not behind the camera or computer, Chas can be found on the river fly fishing near his home in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina.

Christian Pondella is an adventure sports photographer based in Mammoth Lakes, CA. He enjoys traveling throughout the world experiencing different cultures and photographing in remote mountain ranges. As a participant in a lot of the sports he photographs, his goal is to capture the viewer’s emotions and make them feel like they are part of the action.

Christian’s images have appeared in advertising and promotional campaigns for Red Bull, San Disk, ESPN, Patagonia, Black Diamond, f-stop Gear, Mountain Hardwear, Oakley, and many other outdoor brands. He is a Senior Photographer for Powder Magazine, a San Disk Extreme Team member, f-stop Global Icon, Lululemon elite Ambassador and has also been published in Sports Illustrated, ESPN Magazine, Outside, Men’s Journal, Maxim, FHM, GQ, Climbing, Rock and Ice and a variety of other publications and newspapers through out the world.