San Antonio photographer spotlight: Aaron Christmas
Meet San Antonio-born photographer, Aaron Christmas and learn about his journey with the art. | Photo by @sabbrrrrina
Everyone knows that the Alamo City is a cultural hub. From its larger-than-life murals to artists selling works at local markets, San Antonio is a world-destination for creatives.
Today, we’re spotlighting a local film lifestyle + portrait photographer Aaron Christmas.
Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
How did you get your start in photography?
During my first year in college, a friend of mine loaned me a digital camera, but I didn’t feel compelled to create photos.
It wasn’t until a trip to New York City when I was loaned a point-and-shoot film camera where I started feeling inspired by the art.
Aaron has been taking studio portraits using film cameras since 2021.
I’ve been shooting since 2021, and honestly, I feel that I have yet to fully grasp film photography. The time spent at Digital Pro Lab helped cultivate the knowledge and deepen my love for the medium.
What compelled you to shoot film over digital?
Film creates moments that digital cameras can’t capture. In a hyper-consumerist society, film forces you to slow down and enjoy each moment.
There’s a level of authenticity that digital formats can’t replicate.
“My hope is that every photo I produce that you can see the story there.” - Aaron Christmas
Hot Dogs & Hang Time | Tuesday, Aug. 13 | 6:30 p.m. | Travis Park United Methodist Church | Free | Meet the members of the Travis Park community over some franks.
Stacy’s Social Ride | Tuesday, Aug. 13 | 6:45 p.m. | Burleson Yard Beer Garden | Free | Bring your bicycle and wear pink for this family-friendly bike ride.
Wednesday, Aug. 14
San Antonio Startup Day | Wednesday, Aug. 14 | 9 a.m.-8 p.m. | Geekdom | Free | Grow your small business idea and network with business professionals + stay for lectures.
Happy Hour Yoga | Wednesday, Aug. 14 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Spring Creek Gardens | Free | Make your way to the Hill Country for a midweek stretch and stay after for a wine bar experience.
Thursday, Aug. 15
Happy Endings Book Club Meeting | Thursday, Aug. 15 | 6-7 p.m. | Nowhere Bookshop | Free | Sip on happy hour specials while discussing the novel “Just Playing House” by Farah Heron.
Legacy Park Summer Games | Thursday, Aug. 15 | 6-8 p.m. | Legacy Park | Free | Bring your competitive spirit and play lawn games, grab a drink ticket, and take photos using backdrops in the heart of downtown.
VIA is expanding its Link service to the downtown area in a partnership with UTSA + Centro San Antonio. You can book your ride on the all-electric vehicle starting Monday, Sept. 2.
Traffic
Through Thursday, Aug. 15, Marbach Lane between Bracken Drive and 4th Street will be closed nightly for drainage installation. The road closures will take place from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Plan Ahead
Local quartet Agarita and Latin American musician Azul Barrientos are performing a free show at the Stable Hall on Friday, Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m. In celebration of Xicanx Month, the show will feature a blend of original compositions with classical masterpieces. Get to know Agarita before the show.
Edu
It’s back-to-school season and the Office of Sustainability is offering eco-friendly tips for the school year. The department recommends bringing a reusable water bottle, packing a zero-waste lunch, and choosing recycled school supplies.
Shop
Speaking of school, Bakery Lorraine has a deal for teachers and students. Stop by any of its locations for 15% off espresso drinks with a valid ID. Looking for more caffeination inspiration? Check out our guide.
Asked
What are some of San Antonio’s unwritten rules? We asked our Instagram audience this question and wanted to pass the mic to you. Send us an email or comment on our post for a chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter.
Sports
The Bears sit at the bottom half of the Big 12’s standings, but it’s time to congratulate their Olympic medal-winning teammates. Get the latest news, analysis, and insider information for the Baylor Bears with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Kids
When youth play sports with the Y, they gain more than exercise. They learn what it takes to be a leader in sports + life and the essentials of physical fitness, healthy development + participation. Have an interested kiddo? Register them for Fall Youth Sports through Sept. 16.*
Finance
We’re beyond the halfway point of 2024 — aka a good time to make sure you’re maximizing your money. Personal finance experts have reviewed hundreds of credit cards to present you with the four very best bonus cards of the year.*
Wellness
Out of office
4 mental health day activities in San Antonio
Grab a bistro table at Civic Park and crack open the book you’ve been wanting to read. | Photo courtesy of Hemisfair
If you’ve lost motivation to work, are feeling less productive, or find yourself worrying, feeling anxious, and stressed — you might need to take a mental health day.
Just like taking a sick day when our bodies are under the weather, taking a mental health day allows for our minds to rest and ensure our well being.
Here are four ways you can recharge your batteries in San Antonio.
Get some fresh air
Get out and about in your neighborhood while visiting one of our many local parks. We suggest the covered trails at O.P. Shcnabel Park. Plus, if you have a furry friend, go ahead and bring them along for the journey.
Do something creative
Put your hands on the ceramic wheel at Curator Coffee’s upcoming September workshops which include learning how to make ceramic mushroom garden stakes, mugs, and pumpkins.
A plant-based, outdoor mosquito repellent. Within minutes, this two-in-one night light and bug repellent keeps mosquitos away from your patio at the tap of a button, thanks to all natural, advanced technology.
Getting to know Aaron and learning about his story was such a great experience. Outside of bringing you the daily happenings, I’m also a photographer. I have yet to learn the art of film photography. That’s why Aaron and I are teaming up for an SATXtoday photo project. Stay tuned.
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