The 9 Best Editorial Photographers in Fresno, CA

Curious to see who made our list of the top Fresno editorial photographers? Nestled in the San Joaquin Valley, Fresno is known for its unique blend of urban and rural experiences that make it a wonderful place to live or visit. Of course, it’s also known for having over 300 days of sunshine per year, as well as its proximity to some of the most beautiful natural scenery on the planet (like Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks.)

It’s not much of a surprise — given the good light, the good scenery, and the good people — that Fresno is home to some great photographers. The best Fresno editorial photographers shoot work that can perfectly accompany any publication.

1. Craig Kohlruss

Fresno editorial photographer Craig Kohlruss has been pumping out world-class photos for decades, most notably as a staff photographer at The Fresno Bee since 1999. Authenticity is his hallmark, and whether he’s on the street or in the studio, his work demonstrates technical prowess and a grizzled veteran photojournalist’s understanding of photography fundamentals. Look to Kohlruss to get the job done with consistency and professionalism. It’s what’s won him countless accolades throughout his career.

2. Derek J. Lapsley

Derek J. Lapsley is an all-around photographic talent, offering everything from portraiture and product photography to weddings and Christmas photos. Whatever the vibe, expect colorful, bold photos bubbling with personality and creativity. Any publication needing to tap a Fresno photographer for a piece will find a capable ally in Lapsley.

These unique lifestyle photoshoot ideas can inspire your next shoot. Check them out!

3. John Walker

John Walker spent a whopping 32 years at The Fresno Bee, where he won scores of awards and produced thousands of images. His photos are expertly composed, and he often finds dynamic angles that other photographers might overlook. Walker is creative in ways that look effortless and off-the-cuff, and that’s the sign of a true talent. His razor-sharp photos speak for themselves, and there’s no mistaking the work of a photographer who’s been at it for over 40 years. All this and more has earned John Walker his place among the best Fresno editorial photographers. 

4. Carlos Rene Castro

Carlos Rene Castro is a Fresno editorial photographer and journalist whose most affecting work — often in black and white — involves the everyday experiences of people in East Salinas and Fresno. According to Castro, much of his inspiration comes from his experience growing up as an undocumented child in the United States. (Castro immigrated from Honduras at the age of five.) Castro’s work runs the gamut from moody street photography to glossy, studio-lit portraiture. Castro may be relatively early in his professional career, but we expect you’ll be seeing plenty of his photos in years to come.

5. Justy Bolin

Justy Bolin got her start when she launched an online boutique selling vintage band tees. She made her friends model each week, and as she photographed more, she fell in love with the art — and the rest, as they say, is history. Bolin’s lifestyle and editorial photography focuses on fashion, which makes sense, and there’s no denying her sense of style. Bolin’s photos are cool, and that’s impossible to fake. You know it when you see it. 

6. Dakota Jakobi

When it comes to editorials with a Western flare — think cowboy hats and Palomino horses — Jakobi has carved out a niche for herself. It’s hard not to immediately fall in love with her work, with its rustic matte-style color correction (hello, greens and browns) and its easy grace. Civilians will be happy to learn that she shoots weddings, engagements, and family sessions, too! When in doubt, you can usually find some of her editorial work by flipping through Visalia Lifestyle Magazine.

7. Peter Amend

Publications that need photography featuring the great outdoors or active California lifestyle should look no further than Peter Amend. His photos of California’s surfers, longboarders, and divers are some of the best you’ll ever see. In fact, they’re only rivaled by his gorgeous landscapes, which depict California’s beaches, deserts, and forests with aesthetic style and an artistic flair. 

Check out these simple photoshoot ideas that ensure you get the shot every time.

8. John Donegan

John Donegan is one of the most sophisticated photographers in the San Joaquin Valley. Most of his Fresno editorial photography is actually a bit down the road in Bakersfield — shot for The Bakersfield Californian — but he’s been known to travel. In fact, his work has taken him from NYC to Virginia (where he shot for the ultra-cool RVA Magazine), as well as across the sea to far-flung locales like Jordan and Dubai. Often, his images have a vintage, softly-colored feel to them, especially his personal photos. His photos are often surprising, upending the expectations of the viewer in ways big and small, drawing you inward.

9. Kelli Avila

Kelli Avila is another photographer to watch if you’re looking for someone who specializes in that romantic “orange and teal” look that’s very in fashion for lifestyle photography. She primarily shoots in natural light — which she excels at — and her sharp, expressive photos fit perfectly amidst the pages of any publication looking for a slice of California life. Her shoots with families are particularly lovely. If you’re a photo editor looking for hip, fashionable photography that will catch Instagram’s eye, Avila is a photographer to watch.

Fresno editorial photographers: conclusion

Here’s the thing: Central California is gorgeous. And because of that, there’s no shortage of rich material for photographers. The Fresno area is also home to lively arts and culture, from a great culinary scene to music and fashion. The best Fresno editorial photographers capture everything the region has to offer, celebrating it and sharing it with the larger world.

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