Kristi Sutton Elias

California Photographer of the Year, Master photographer Kristi Sutton Elias has been an artist all of her life. Earning her degree from Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara in 1998, she’s worked as a professional photographer and gallery represented artist for the past 21 years. Kristi specializes in studio, location and underwater photography. She Shoots with a Hasselblad H6D medium format digital camera.

Kristi's portraits are easily recognized by their distinctive, timeless and dramatic style and her strong use of a chiaroscuro color palette.

Kristi’s unique style and vision has brought her to the forefront of the photography world, and she has been featured on NBC News, in museums, art galleries, billboards, storefront window displays, Magazine covers and ads as well as in numerous industry magazines like Professional Photographer and Rangefinder Magazine.

Her portraits have earned her numerous top awards and international recognition. Including multiple Photographer of the Year Medallions, the Canon Par Excellence award, multiple PPA Loan Collection images and over 100 WPPI Honor of Excellence Awards.

Kristi owns a portrait studio and art gallery on the water in Shoreline Village of Long Beach California. She believes in giving back and helping to grow the photography industry. Kristi is a photographic mentor, teacher, author and image competition judge. 

Kristi's hobbies include working out everyday, including Muay Thai and Krav Maga Martial Arts.

For more information on Kristi's work, to get in touch regarding editorial or advertising opportunities, or to just say hello, feel free to email kristielias333@gmail.com to get in touch.