Hi, I'm Christopher (CJ) Schade, a creative visual storyteller with over a decade of experience in commercial photography and video production. I combine technical precision with a strong sense of narrative to produce high-quality visual content that engages audiences across digital platforms. I enjoy leading teams and collaborating closely with clients to bring stories to life through compelling imagery. When I'm not behind the camera, I also teach photography fundamentals and mentor aspiring creatives, helping to shape the next generation of visual artists. I'm passionate about crafting content that not only looks great but also tells meaningful stories that resonate with viewers.

Christopher (CJ) Schade

Hi, I'm Christopher (CJ) Schade, a creative visual storyteller with over a decade of experience in commercial photography and video production. I combine technical precision with a strong sense of narrative to produce high-quality visual content that engages audiences across digital platforms. I enjoy leading teams and collaborating closely with clients to bring stories to life through compelling imagery. When I'm not behind the camera, I also teach photography fundamentals and mentor aspiring creatives, helping to shape the next generation of visual artists. I'm passionate about crafting content that not only looks great but also tells meaningful stories that resonate with viewers.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Christopher (CJ) Schade, a creative visual storyteller with over a decade of experience in commercial photography and video production. I combine technical precision with a strong sense of narrative to produce high-quality visual content that engages audiences across digital platforms. I enjoy leading teams and collaborating closely with clients to bring stories to life through compelling imagery.

When I’m not behind the camera, I also teach photography fundamentals and mentor aspiring creatives, helping to shape the next generation of visual artists. I’m passionate about crafting content that not only looks great but also tells meaningful stories that resonate with viewers.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Owner / Freelance Photographer at CJ Schade Photography
January 1, 2014 - Present
Specialize in architectural, interior, portrait, and product photography. Produce video content for commercial clients and social media campaigns. Maintain client relationships and oversee the full project life cycle. Captured cover feature and main article photography for Renovation Contractor Magazine.
Visual Content Manager at Cosmo Music
April 1, 2024 - Present
Directed national campaign shoots resulting in a 30% increase in engagement across YouTube and Instagram. Led a team of 4+ creatives to produce marketing assets for eCommerce and social platforms. Directed and shot product photography and promotional videos for national campaigns. Implemented standardized post-production workflows, reducing turnaround time by 30%. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to meet tight deadlines. Recognized for consistent punctuality and reliable execution during on-site and studio productions.
Visual Content Team Lead at Cosmo Music
April 30, 2024 - July 28, 2025
Led a team of creatives to produce marketing assets and manage studio operations. Collaborated with marketing, product, and artist relations teams to create cohesive visual campaigns.
Photographer at Cosmo Music
May 31, 2023 - July 28, 2025
Directed and shot product photography and promotional videos for campaigns. Oversaw studio operations to ensure high production quality.
Part-Time Professor, Photography Program at Durham College – Oshawa, ON
September 1, 2018 - Present
Teach Fundamentals of Lighting, Compositional Design, and Post-Processing. Mentor students and evaluate portfolio development.

Education

Diploma at Durham College – Oshawa, ON
September 1, 2012 - April 30, 2014
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) at Dr. G.W. Williams Secondary School – Aurora, ON
September 1, 2007 - June 30, 2011

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Retail, Real Estate & Construction, Non-Profit Organization