Welcome to The Rivista, a place where we highlight unique and creative members of the Del Toro community who inspire us. Since Father’s Day is just around the corner, this month’s edition is a spotlight on one of the coolest dads we know.
Our June Rivista highlight is none other than Christian Hafer. Hafer’s widely known as one of the best photographers in golf, but behind the lens stands a guy with a NATO strap on his watch and a few words to say about cars, fashion, and the golf industry.
He chatted with us and photographed his favorite styles from our SS ‘23 Collection. Read the full interview below and be sure to follow his instagram @hafe_life.
For those who don’t know, tell us a little about yourself and what you do.
I guess I’d say I am a photographer that specializes in golf. The last few years I’ve started working as a director of photography and creative director for various projects. From editorial, commercial and tour events I sort of cover it all.
What does a typical day look like for you as a photographer?
I think the best part of my job is how different each day is. Some days I am out on tour waking up at 4:00 am and shooting some of the best golfers in the world for 10-12 hours. Walking 20+ miles in a day. Other days I am out on course shooting an editorial piece or documenting the course. Last year I flew about 250K air miles and saw a lot of golf in all shapes and sizes.
With spending hours a day on your feet walking golf courses and traveling, have you become more particular about what kinds of shoes you wear and travel with?
Honestly my footwear has become a critical part of my life. Hiking around courses, running through airports and all of that has forced me to think about comfort. But trying to pair that with a sense of style that’s mine is also something I really think about.
How would you describe your personal style? Does it translate to your on-course style?
If late sixties Bob Dylan, a skate rat and JFK had a love child I may be close to that. It’s constantly evolving on and off the course. I’ve found a few ways to keep my style on course or while working but also be functional. Hard to walk 20 miles with three cameras in a black leather jacket, sadly.
How has your style evolved since having children?
Immensely. Somedays are just dadcore days in the least ironic way possible. The biggest thing I’ve started to find myself doing is investing in pieces for the long haul. How well a shoe will wear in or maybe a white oxford I can wear for ten years. I remember certain things my Dad wore as a kid. And I want my kids to think fondly of the times when Dad got a fit off.
Do you think footwear is the most important part of an outfit?
The wrong shoes kill a good look. The right shoes can elevate a boring look.
What’s something in the golf industry that you’ve grown to have strong opinions about?
Everything. Honestly, I find myself so ingrained in this community that I want to ensure it’s moving forward in the best way. That the game is welcoming newcomers while not alienating golfers that have been here for decades. Trying to make golf appealing visually for the world without stereotyping us. Its really one of the most unique communities in the world if you look.
What excites you most in the golf world right now?
The growth is insane. Seeing some of the biggest stars in the world getting into it is great but I’m hearing stories from my wife’s aunts about their experience learning golf.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give people who want to be more creative and express themselves through mediums like photography?
You’ll struggle forever to get your art out there if you try to appeal to people. Instead of worrying about how to make it happen, put that effort into building your style and work that makes you proud. They’ll come to find you just make work that’s truly yours.
What’s a photograph that you consider some of your best work?
That’s a tough one but I think the 2019 Masters when Tiger Woods won. This shot was at the most critical point in the round when it shifted to Tiger. Its from a unique angle and I kind of like it.
Shop the Men's Navy Centesimo and the Men's Tan Suede & White Linen Centesimo.
All Photographs by Christian Hafer.
Interview by Emma Greenebaum.
