Today we’d like to introduce you to Harini Chokshi.
Hi Harini, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in India and am now based in the Austin area. Photography has been part of my story for as long as I can remember. My dad owned multiple cameras and had a deep love for capturing moments, and watching him document life so passionately left a lasting impression on me. That quiet influence eventually became my own calling.
In 2012, my husband gifted me a Sony camera, and that moment changed everything. What started as curiosity quickly turned into purpose. The more I photographed, the more I realized this wasn’t just a hobby—it was how I saw the world. Once I decided to pursue photography as a career, I committed fully and went on to earn my Master of Photography degree—deepening both my technical expertise and artistic vision.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I truly love photography and enjoy what I do so deeply that very little has ever felt like a “struggle.” That said, the journey definitely required patience, persistence, and commitment.
Nothing happened overnight. Earning my Master of Photography degree took three years of dedication, discipline, and continuous learning. During that time, I was raising a toddler and was also pregnant with my second child. I eventually received my degree when my second baby was just four months old. That season of life was intense—balancing motherhood, sleepless nights, studying, photographing sessions, editing, and competing—but it was also incredibly empowering.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I began my journey as a portrait and wedding photographer, and weddings remain the heart of my work. I truly love meeting new couples, hearing their stories, and capturing their love in a way that feels authentic and timeless. Being trusted to document one of the most important days of someone’s life is an honor I deeply cherish.
While pursuing my Master of Photography degree, I refined my storytelling style and also fell in love with Fine Art floral photography. For the past four years, I’ve been conducting workshops in this genre, mentoring photographers to develop their artistic voice. My portrait and fine art work have been featured in multiple exhibitions and have found homes with collectors.
I have also worked as an eCommerce and product photographer, contributing to major auctions including Game of Thrones, Planet Hollywood Treasures, Succession, Hollywood Blockbuster, and the Hollywood & Entertainment Signature Auction.
What sets me apart is the balance between emotion and precision. I connect deeply with my couples and bring both heart and technical mastery to every image I create.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
None of this would have been possible without my family—especially my husband. He has been my biggest supporter and backbone, often taking care of the kids and handling everything at home while I’m out photographing weddings or attending workshops. His unwavering belief in me has made it possible for me to fully pursue my passion.
I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to find amazing mentors and friends through Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and through my work. Their guidance, encouragement, and honest feedback have played a huge role in my growth—both creatively and professionally.
And of course, my clients deserve immense credit. Every couple and family who has trusted me with their memories has helped shape my journey. Without this circle of support, mentorship, and trust, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://harinichokshi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographybyharini
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarinisPhotography
