KRISTO: FROM PHOTOGRAPHY TO THE DIGITAL BUSINESS WORLD
by Sarah Green
From Buenos Aires to New York, Cristian “Kristo” Altamirano has built a multidisciplinary career that blends photography, production, digital marketing, and photojournalism. With over 18 years of experience in the creative industry, he has collaborated with major international brands and media outlets. His journey is that of an artist and entrepreneur who has continuously reinvented himself, successfully bringing his vision to different markets.
AN INTERNATIONAL CAREER
Originally from Buenos Aires, Kristo began his career in photography, specializing in fashion, documentary, and advertising. His talent led him to work with globally recognized brands like Coca-Cola, Sprite, Patagonia, Toyota, Burger King, and Schweppes. He has also covered major fashion weeks in Milan, Paris, London, Berlin, Barcelona, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro.
His work has been published in media outlets such as Para Ti, HOLA Argentina, and DMAG, and he has collaborated with top modeling agencies and production companies like Look 1, Pink, LoManagement, and Grupo Mass. Additionally, his experience in event production positioned him in the lifestyle and hospitality scene, working with iconic Buenos Aires bars such as Franks Bar and Isabel Bar.
ART AND SOCIAL COMMITMENT
In 2018, Kristo published Buenos Aires in the Flesh, a book that fuses art, fashion, architecture, and Argentine history. The work was recognized as a cultural document by the Buenos Aires Legislature and was presented at the Argentine Consulate in New York in 2022. He is currently developing New York in the Flesh, a continuation of his project exploring cultural parallels between the two cities.
In the documentary field, his project The Hospital Series aims to highlight the history and impact of medical institutions. Its first chapter, Hospital y Hogar Guillermo Rawson, tells the story of one of Argentina’s most iconic hospitals. His commitment to the community was also evident in his initiative Rawsoncitos, through which he helped over 300 animals during the pandemic by organizing sterilization and rescue campaigns.
GROWTH AND EXPANSION IN NEW YORK
In 2021, Kristo moved to New York and continued his work as a photojournalist for G7 Magazine, covering globally relevant events such as New York Pride and Art Basel in Miami. He has also interviewed notable figures such as Hernán Cattaneo, Yungblud, and Eugenio Cuttica.
In 2022, he founded Holdstep LLC, a 360° digital marketing agency specializing in connecting Argentine talent with clients in the United States. Through this company, he has worked with Sony Pictures, Paramount, Columbia Pictures, Victoria Beckham Beauty, Stella Artois, Babasónicos, Los Cafres, Dread Mar-I, and La Joaqui, solidifying his presence in the U.S. market.
THE PET CARE INDUSTRY: PASSION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Seeking new challenges, Kristo founded AnimalHomeSolutions Inc., a holding company focused on premium pet care and veterinary services in New York. Its main brand, PKPetsitters, has grown with plans to expand through franchising.
He has also worked with the luxury brand LeDoggieCool, managing its marketing and photography to establish it as a premier pet care provider in Williamsburg. Under his alias lightkristo, he has developed photographic projects such as Photos with Santa, Dog Yearbook, Valentine’s Day, and Dog Fashion Week, further establishing himself as a leading pet photographer.
His work also includes collaborations with shelters like Pupstarz Rescue, where his photography has played a crucial role in increasing adoption rates and improving the visibility of animals in need of a home.
A VISION IN CONSTANT EVOLUTION
Always seeking innovation, Kristo continues to expand his influence in the fields of art, marketing, and business. His career demonstrates the adaptability and growth of a creative professional who has made a significant impact in Argentina and Latin America—now with an established presence in the U.S. market.