Chris Schmitt is an award-winning portrait and event photographer based in Westlake Village, California. He kicked off his career learning the ropes from some true legends of photography—David LaChapelle, Annie Leibovitz, Herb Ritts, Matthew Rolston, and Peggy Sirota—so yeah, you could say he had pretty good mentors.

In 2001, Chris and his wife (and favorite creative partner) Andrea jumped into shooting weddings and events full time. Since then, they’ve had the honor of capturing over 1,000 weddings—a thousand love stories, happy tears, dance floors, and unforgettable moments.

In 2013, Chris founded 805 Studios, which has grown into the premier photo studio rental and event space in the area—and now a photography gallery as well. When he’s not behind the camera, he’s going on long walks with his pal Finn.