by Mirta Marquez
From Buenos Aires to New York, Cristian “Kristo” Altamirano has built a versatile career that blends photography, production, digital marketing, and photojournalism. With over 18 years of experience in the creative industry, his work has been featured in renowned magazines, and he has collaborated with international brands. His story is that of an artist and entrepreneur who has reinvented himself, transcending borders and bringing his vision to diverse markets.
A CAREER WITH GLOBAL PROJECTION
Originally from Buenos Aires, Kristo began his journey in photography, excelling in fashion, documentary, and advertising. His talent led him to work with prestigious brands such as Coca-Cola, Sprite, Patagonia, Toyota, Burger King, and Schweppes, while also covering major fashion weeks in cities like Milan, Paris, London, Berlin, Barcelona, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro.
His images have been published in outlets like Para Ti, HOLA Argentina, and DMAG, and he has worked with top modeling agencies and production companies such as Look 1, Pink, LoManagement, and Grupo Mass. Additionally, his expertise in event production positioned him within the lifestyle and hospitality scene, contributing to the management of iconic Buenos Aires bars like Franks Bar and Isabel Bar.
ART AND SOCIAL COMMITMENT
In 2018, Kristo published Buenos Aires in the Flesh, a book that merges art, fashion, architecture, and Argentine history. The work was recognized by the Buenos Aires Legislature as a document of cultural interest and was presented at the Argentine Consulate in New York in 2022. Currently, he is expanding this series with New York in the Flesh, exploring the parallels between both cities.
His passion for documentary photography led him to develop The Hospital Series, with its first chapter, Hospital y Hogar Guillermo Rawson, chronicling the history of one of Argentina’s most significant medical institutions. This project stemmed from his work in animal rescue during the pandemic and his initiative Rawsoncitos, through which he helped over 300 animals with neutering campaigns and rescues.
GROWTH IN THE U.S.: BUSINESS AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION
In 2021, Kristo moved to New York with his wife and continued his work as a photojournalist for G7 Magazine, Argentina’s most influential marketing and advertising publication. Through this platform, he has covered globally impactful events such as New York Pride and Art Basel Miami, while also interviewing prominent figures like Hernán Cattaneo, Yungblud, and Eugenio Cuttica.
In 2022, Kristo founded Holdstep LLC, his 360° digital marketing agency specializing in connecting Argentine talent with U.S. clients. Through this firm, he has worked with Sony Pictures, Paramount, Columbia Pictures, Victoria Beckham Beauty, Stella Artois, Babasónicos, Los Cafres, Dread Mar-I, and La Joaqui, strengthening his presence in the American market.
THE PET CARE INDUSTRY: PASSION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
With an innovative approach to the pet care industry, Kristo founded AnimalHomeSolutions Inc., a holding company that provides premium pet care and veterinary services in New York. Operating under the brand PKPetsitters, the company has plans to expand through franchising.
Additionally, he has collaborated with the luxury brand LeDoggieCool, managing its marketing and photography to position it as the most sophisticated canine care option in Williamsburg. Under his alias lightkristo, he has developed photographic series for flagship events such as Photos with Santa, Dog Yearbook, Valentine’s Day, and Dog Fashion Week, establishing himself as a leading pet photographer.
His commitment to the community has led him to partner with shelters like Pupstarz Rescue, using his photographic skills to increase adoption rates and improve visibility for animals in need of a home.
BEYOND PHOTOGRAPHY: A FUTURE IN CONSTANT EVOLUTION
Always seeking new challenges, Kristo continues exploring ways to integrate art, marketing, and business. His story is that of a creative force who has left a lasting impact on the industry in Argentina and Latin America while expanding his vision into the U.S. market. With an innovative mindset and an innate ability to evolve, his legacy keeps growing, blurring the lines between creativity and global entrepreneurship.
