The Bowtie Behind the Lens
Fresh Brewed Iowa Conversation With Photographer Chris Maharry on Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast
The odds are, if you've attended a major event in Iowa—whether it's a gala, a political fundraiser, or even a wedding—chances are you've seen Chris Maharry in action and he has captured you on camera. You may not have even noticed him at first, but the moment you do, you realize something unique: he’s not just taking pictures. He’s working the room, effortlessly blending into the event while capturing the moments that matter. And of course, he’s doing it all with his signature bowtie and dapper style.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Chris on Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast to talk about his journey in photography, how he builds trust with his subjects, and what it really takes to make a living behind the lens in a world where everyone has a camera in their pocket.
A 33-Year Career That Started in High School
Chris has been a professional photographer for over 33 years, but his passion started long before that. He shot his first wedding in high school, an opportunity that came about because of a simple family connection.
"My cousin was getting married, and they knew I was into photography," Chris recalls. "So they asked if I’d photograph their wedding. My dad says he helped, and I’m not saying he didn’t, but I honestly can’t remember what he did!"
That first gig led to more, and by the time he was out of high school, Chris was well on his way to making photography his career. His secret? A natural eye for composition and an ability to capture people in their most authentic moments.
"I could frame a photograph within the camera instantaneously and not have to recrop it later. It just made sense to me that way," he says.
The Art of the Candid Moment
One of the things that sets Chris apart is his ability to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera—so much so that sometimes they don’t even realize they’re being photographed.
"When I walk up to a group at an event, I’ll say, ‘Don’t move, you look wonderful!’ And they freeze, just as they are. That’s the moment I capture," Chris explains. "Because when people see the camera coming, they tend to stiffen up or pose unnaturally. But if I catch them mid-laugh or in the middle of a conversation, the photo tells a much more genuine story."
It’s not just about snapping the shot; it’s about building rapport with his subjects. Whether it’s a CEO, a politician, or an ordinary Iowan, Chris knows how to make people feel at ease.
"People trust me," he says. "They know I’m going to be respectful, that I’m not out to catch them in an unflattering moment. And if by chance they do look silly? I delete it."
From Bowties to Bravo—Being a Photographer is More Than Just Clicking a Button
At a recent Bravo Gala, one of Des Moines’ biggest social events of the year, Chris took over 1,000 photos in a single evening. But what’s surprising is how quickly he processes them.
"People think it must take me forever to go through all those photos, but it took me an hour and fifteen minutes to sift through and edit them," he says. "If you take the shot right the first time, you don’t have to mess with it later."
His approach to photography is refreshingly old-school. Unlike many modern photographers who rely heavily on post-production edits, Chris prides himself on getting the perfect shot in-camera.
"I barely manipulate my photos," he admits. "Some photographers love Photoshop, and that’s fine. But my philosophy is, if you take it right the first time, there’s no need for extra work."
Photography in the Age of Smartphones
With the rise of high-quality phone cameras, it’s easy to assume that professional photography might be struggling. But Chris isn’t worried.
"Yes, everyone can take a picture," he says. "But not everyone knows how to capture a moment. Not everyone understands light, composition, and most importantly—people."
That’s why he continues to get hired for high-profile shoots, from corporate portraits to official government photography. In fact, if you’ve watched the news lately, you’ve probably seen his work.
"Anytime they show a photo of the governor on TV, that’s mine," he says with a grin.
An Idea for the Future
During our conversation, an idea struck me—what if we gathered some of Iowa’s top photographers for a unique art exhibit, where they photograph each other? Chris lit up at the idea.
"Oh, that would be fascinating," he said. "Every photographer has their own style. To see how different artists interpret each other through the lens? That could be a truly special project."
Maybe that’s something we’ll make happen in the near future.
More Than Just a Photographer
At the end of our conversation, I couldn’t help but admire Chris’s approach—not just to photography, but to life. He’s built a career not only on technical skill but on connection, trust, and an appreciation for the people he photographs.
"People think of me as a photographer," he says. "But really, I just love being around people. The camera is just my way of being part of the moment."
And that, I think, is what makes Chris Maharry’s work so special.
So the next time you’re at an event and you see a well-dressed man in a bowtie with a camera in hand—smile. You just might end up in one of Iowa’s most memorable photographs.
Learn more about Chris and his work HERE.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Chris Maharry on Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast! → CLICK HERE
I'm going to share this with my Iowa City Camera Club. I think they'll enjoy it!