About Kandid Kush
Revealing the
Meet the Artist
Chris Romaine, known professionally as Kandid Kush, is a California-based photographer specializing in macro and micro imagery of cannabis. His work reveals the hidden architecture of the plant—transforming flowers into abstract topographies and alien landscapes through focus stacking and precision studio lighting.
Early Life & Career
Born in Tacoma, Washington and currently based in Grass Valley, Chris began his photographic journey with disposable cameras, documenting punk shows, skateboarding, and candid moments of youth. Over time, his passion evolved through portraiture, editorial assignments, and an early career in custom paint and automotive design. In 2014, he turned his lens toward cannabis—and everything changed.
Art & Mission
Through the intimate process of photographing trichomes and botanical textures, Chris found not just a subject, but a statement. His imagery is a reflection of his personal relationship with the plant—one of healing, creativity, and transformation. He sees photography as a tool to challenge stigma, elevate perception, and celebrate the complexity of cannabis as both a cultural force and a living organism.
Publications
Chris’s work has been published on the covers of High Times, Cannabis Now, and Dope Magazine, and featured in books and media platforms including Forbes, Leafly, BBC, and LiveScience. In 2024, he placed 3rd in the Nikon Small World Photomicrography competition with Cosmic Coral, while Pineapple Wonder received an Image of Distinction.
Exhibitions
His photographs have been exhibited internationally and across the U.S., including shows in New York City, San Francisco, Atlanta, Barcelona, and Chiang Mai. Whether viewed in a gallery or on screen, his work invites viewers to slow down, zoom in, and reconsider what they think they know about cannabis.
