Today we’d like to introduce you to Josh Cho.
Hi Josh, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into commercial architecture photography began at Santa Monica College, where I received technical training in commercial photography. Through the college’s internship program, I was connected with Benny Chan, a prominent architectural photographer, which opened the door to the world of architectural imagery. I went on to assist two established architectural photographers working in Los Angeles. Their mentorship gave me invaluable insight into the industry and deepened my understanding and appreciation for creating architectural photographs. Over the next ten years, I continued assisting on and off, learning the nuances of the field and refining my craft. In 2015, I launched my own practice, bringing a decade of hands-on experience to my work in architectural photography.
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?
Starting my own photography business came from a mix of necessity, reflection, and rediscovery. After finishing my MFA in Studio Art at UC Irvine in 2011, I began teaching photography at various colleges across Southern California. While I was passionate about education, the reality of commuting between three campuses with no clear path to a full-time position wore on me. It forced me to ask myself: why had I set aside my original interest in commercial architecture photography?
I slowly began revisiting that passion while still teaching—building a portfolio in the evenings, on weekends, and during any spare moment I could find. That process took nearly two years before I felt ready to officially launch my website. Once I put my work out into the world, it was another full year before I landed my first significant project: photographing for Phaidon Press for their Los Angeles city guide. That opportunity not only validated my efforts but also led to two long-standing client relationships that I still maintain today.
The early stages were tough—especially connecting with clients. The pace was slow, and it was easy to question whether the risk would pay off. But what I’ve learned is that success in this field often comes from consistency, patience, and having trust in the quality of your own work.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a photographer and educator. I currently teach at El Camino College in the South Bay. In my commercial practice, I specialize in architectural photography, serving a variety of clients such as architects, interior designers, and creative directors from various brand lines.
What I find most exciting about my job is that I get to work closely with other creatives and photograph on location in thoughtfully designed spaces. Every location and project is different which makes my job not feel mundane. I am quite lucky to have found something fulfilling and engaging to do in my commercial work.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
There are a lot of transplants in Los Angeles especially in the field of arts. I am originally from Los Angeles, born and raised. I am also left-handed. Sometimes those two facts about me surprise people.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joshchophotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jchophoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshchophotography
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshcho
Image Credits
Josh Cho
