Check Out Gina Cholick’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gina Cholick.

Hi Gina, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
The first time I saw an image slowly appear in a darkroom as a kid in South Dakota, I was captivated, not just by the magic of the process, but by the way a simple object or quiet moment could become extraordinary. My grandfather, a passionate amateur photographer, gave me one of his 35mm cameras, and I was soon drawn to the overlooked details in everyday life: the way light fell across a wall, the sun reflected in a puddle, and the patterns in ordinary objects. That fascination has stayed with me ever since.

I went on to study photography at Montana State University where I was fortunate to learn the zone system with 4×5 film, experiment with alternative processes, and create traditional color c-prints. Those early experiences gave me a strong foundation, even as I later embraced digital photography. After graduating, I assisted commercial and editorial photographers in Seattle and Los Angeles and spent time producing photo shoots. Being on set was a second education, teaching me the intricacies of lighting, planning, and pre-production.

Today, I balance commercial work with a fine art practice that often centers on self-portraiture. Photography has always been a way for me to process complex emotions, and it is both creative and therapeutic. Moving to Los Angeles introduced me to a vibrant community at the Los Angeles Center of Photography, where I’ve studied, connected with mentors, and found colleagues who inspire me.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with commercial clients including Disney, Google, National Geographic, and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles.

My fine art work has been shared nationally, in person and online, in spaces such as the San Diego Art Institute, The Griffith Museum, Moah:Cedar, Tilt Gallery, the Robert Berman Gallery, Lenscratch, F-Stop Magazine, and more. I recently curated a show for the Duluth Art Institute featuring student work from the University of Minnesota Duluth. It was a wonderful experience and has me excited for more curating opportunities.

For this article, the images I’m sharing are from a self-portrait series called Blue, which I created during the pandemic. The work explores the search for a deeper self beneath the surface of daily life. I’m also sharing images from Encounter, an ongoing series that examines our connection to the cosmos. My dear friend Sarah modeled for me, which made the exploration of something vast feel personal.

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?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. Over the past 20 years, the photography industry has shifted dramatically, and there have been moments when I had to rethink how I approach my work entirely. When technology changed and the market became saturated, there were times I questioned where I fit and whether I could keep going in the same direction.

What’s helped me through those periods is staying adaptable and leaning into creativity. I’ve had to remind myself that there isn’t just one “right” way to have a career in photography—it’s about staying curious and open to change. That mindset has carried me through the harder seasons and allowed me to keep growing while staying connected to the parts of the work that feel most meaningful.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Currently, my commercial work focuses on smaller brands and entrepreneurs, creating artistic, elevated images for websites and social media. I love making people feel beautiful while bringing a creative, refined approach to their brand. I work with coaches, authors, wellness professionals, and other creatives, and I also have extensive experience in event photography. What sets me apart is the distinct way I see and play with light in every image. This helps my clients’ images stand out in the constant stream of photos we all see each day.

I’m also excited about a new offering called Soul Sessions. These sessions are designed to give women a photography experience where they walk away feeling empowered, seen, and confident.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that my own art practice can never take a backseat. It’s easy to get absorbed in client work, but carving out time for personal projects keeps my creativity alive and brings fresh energy to everything I do.

I’ve also realized that art reaches its fullest potential when it’s shared. Being part of a community of mentors, colleagues, and fellow artists has made my career not only sustainable but deeply rewarding and keeps me inspired to create.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ginacholick.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photogina

Image Credits
Gina Cholick