Meet Chantis Parks, the NYC-based gay photographer whose work celebrates queer joy & pleasure

Courtesy of Chantis Parks

Chantis Parks is an event and documentary photographer based in the vibrant metropolis of New York City. With an innate passion for capturing the essence of moments, Parks has established himself as a notable figure within the photography community. He has collaborated closely with the Folsom Street Fair organization, serving as one of their official photographers in both 2022 and 2023. His keen eye for detail and ability to capture the raw energy of events has earned him recognition within the alternative nightlife scene of NYC, where he is known for always having his camera at the ready.

In addition to his event work, Parks has been honored as a featured artist at prestigious platforms such as MASS COLLAB MEDIA productions in New York City and Out's sister publication The Advocate. Through his lens, Parks continues to weave narratives that transcend boundaries and illuminate the diverse tapestry of human experience.

I first encountered Chantis' work in 2022 in a collection of Folsom Street Fair images. Immediately, I could see that he builds a language with his subjects and communicates volumes in each frame. His ability to include an abundance of subtle detail in both structure and emotion is a gift in the way he tells us the story of the moment. Parks' style evokes the nostalgia of original photography masters like Henri Cartier-Bresson, who taught us about the decisive moment, and Helen Levitt, who took us out to the streets of every day city life before technology ruled our world. Seeing all these amazing qualities wrapped in reverence for bold queer kinky pride is life giving to our community.

Scroll through to learn more about Chantis and see highlights of his work! You can also find him on the web at imagesbychantis.com and on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

Do you know of an LGBTQ+ photographer or artist who deserves more spotlight? Let us know by emailing photoassistant@equalpride.com.

Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a photographer?

My photography journey has been quite the adventure. It all began back in 2016 when I embarked on my professional path. Initially, I found myself navigating the studio environment, trying to find my footing. However, it wasn't until I ventured into the streets and explored the dynamic world of candid photography that I truly discovered my love, style, and passion. It's been a journey filled with twists, turns, and plenty of laughter along the way!

How does your queer identity shape the way you see/portray your subjects?

Being a Black, queer, and fiercely sex-positive individual, much of my photography revolves around showcasing the representation of BIPOC and the most marginalized members of the LGBTQIA+ communities. My unique intersectionalities provide me with the perspective to both observe and document aspects of the LGBTQIA+ community that might otherwise go unnoticed. It's akin to moving through these spaces with the adaptability of a chameleon, allowing me to connect with and capture a diverse array of experiences and narratives.

What story do you hope to tell the world with your art?

It's interesting because my professional background and training, outside of photography, can be quite intricate and might not be everyone's cup of tea. However, through my art, I find an escape from the conventional 9-5 grind, allowing me to delve into narratives that many might consider taboo. Ultimately, my hope is that the world perceives my art as authentic and liberating as I feel creating it, and that my images serve as a vessel for the stories of those I capture within them.

Are there specific themes you try to consistently incorporate in your work?

If I were to pinpoint a theme for all my work, it would undoubtedly revolve around individuals embracing life to its fullest. I strive to create a space in my work that is free from judgment, presenting it as a sanctuary where people can be themselves without reservation. Capturing subjects in this style demands a significant level of trust from both the individuals being photographed and myself as the photographer. It's a collaborative process built on mutual respect and understanding.

How do you plan a concept and where do you find inspiration?

Starting out in this field is definitely not a walk in the park. It requires a tremendous amount of effort and often involves plenty of groundwork before any significant opportunities arise. Personally, I've been fortunate to collaborate with individuals who recognize the importance of showcasing diversity in their events. People like Angel Adeyoha, the executive director on the board of the Folsom Street Organization, and Joshua Cook from Places I Never Heard of LLC, NYC, who hosts monthly content creator gatherings in NYC and DC, have been instrumental in providing platforms for diverse representation.

When it comes to planning my work, inspiration usually strikes when I encounter a subject that sparks a vision in the moment. Trust plays a pivotal role in my process. About 90 percent of the time, it's about aligning our visions and placing faith in each other's creative instincts.

We often focus on LGBTQ+ people being the subject of art, but not the artists. Can you talk about the importance of having LGBTQ+ artists behind the camera?

I appreciate this question, although my perspective extends beyond just the LGBTQIA+ community. As a Black, queer American photographer, I believe it's crucial to assemble a diverse team for events. This not only increases the likelihood of diverse representation in the resulting images but also fosters a sense of comfort and trust for many of us when we see ourselves reflected in the team behind the camera.

How does being based in NYC impact your work?

To be honest, I've had the opportunity to work across the globe. While living in NYC opens doors to industries like "sex work" and collaborations with successful content creators, some of my most authentic work has unfolded in locations far removed from the city and in incredibly rural areas. However, I must say, I have a deep love for NYC. It's undeniably the best place to encounter individuals living authentically every day, unburdened by the fear of judgment.

What are you working on next?

At the moment, I'm actively searching for a venue in NYC to host an exhibition, putting the finishing touches on a coffee table book featuring my images, and, naturally, I'm open to inquiries from event organizers in need of a photographer.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.

Courtesy of Chantis Parks

See more of Parks' recent work on his website, imagesbychantis.com. And find him on Instagram, @imagesbychantis.