Step into the dynamic world of visual storytelling with award-winning cinematographer Chris Wairegi—a creative force reshaping filmmaking through bold imagery, collaborative artistry, and intentional representation. In this powerful biographical episode, Chris reflects on the journey from early creative influences to becoming a sought-after cinematographer known for visual narratives that amplify identity, culture, and lived experience. From on-set insight to emotional creative pivots, Chris opens up about building a career from the ground up, finding community, and the significance of authentic representation in today’s film and media landscape. Listeners will hear behind-the-scenes stories from notable productions, how artistic style develops through experimentation, and what it means to lead with curiosity, empathy, and purpose. Chris also discusses the importance of mentorship, the technical and philosophical sides of the craft, and why cinematography matters now more than ever. Whether you’re a filmmaker, storyteller, student, or cinephile, this conversation offers wisdom, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the power of images to move hearts and shift culture.
🎧 Tune in for creative guidance, insight into visual storytelling, and a compelling life story grounded in passion and purpose.
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BIO
Chris Wairegi is a New York based cinematographer, local 600 camera operator, ASC Mentee and creator of 600 Black Women. Chris was born in Cleveland, OH to parents, who are both entrepreneurs, and she has an older brother. A keen student, she enjoyed art and history as well as excelling at a number of sports. During high school she developed an interest in photography and decided to pursue a film career so she chose Rochester Institute of Technology where she would be able to make films in her first year. She already knew that she was destined for the Big Apple so armed with a dual degree to her credit she made her way into the industry. Chris emphasizes the importance of starting at the bottom and learning different roles, which has helped her appreciate the multi-faceted industry now that she is a cinematographer. Chris’ filming experience is cross genre from narrative to documentary, commercial to experimental, and short to long form works for streaming, television, and the big screen. Her credits include Netflix’ Survival of the Fittest, Starz’ Run The World, Black Girl Beauty for VH1, andMTV’s, Women in Rap. In 2021, Chris founded 600 Black Women whose mission is to create a more inclusive industry and for which she was the recipient of the very first Kodak Vanguard Award. She is a member of the ICG Scholarship Committee, a 2021 ICG Generation Next Change Maker and a 2023 ASC Vision Scholar. Chris lives in New York with her husband and their dog.
Chris’ links: Website: chriswairegi.com
600 Black Women: https://www.600blackwomen.com/
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6384689/
Instagram: @blackberryfilms
Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
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