2017-2018
CONFUSED ABOUT MY CAREER…
In 2017, I started college without much thought, enrolling in a BA program simply because it seemed like the next step. At the same time, I got involved in theatre, hoping it would spark something within me. But no matter how much I tried, something always felt missing—as if I were searching for a passion that wasn’t truly mine.
Then came 2018, I was sitting with my mother, casually talking, when the conversation shifted to my love for photography. That moment felt significant, though I didn’t realize just how much at the time. As we talked, a realization struck me—I needed to pursue photography seriously, not just as a hobby.
Determined, I began researching photography colleges and institutes. But I wasn’t looking for just any place; I wanted to study somewhere that valued photography as an art form, not just another subject in a syllabus. That’s when I came across the Raghu Rai Center for Photography. The more I learned about it, the clearer it became—this was where I belonged.
Without hesitation, I made my decision. I chose to DROP OUT of college, leaving behind the uncertainty I had felt for so long, and took my first real step toward the world of photography.
2018-2019
A NEW DAWN…
With a heart full of determination, I packed my bags and moved to an entirely new city—a place where everything felt unfamiliar. I had no idea what lay ahead, but one thing was certain: I was ready to chase my passion. I enrolled in a basic photography course, eager to understand the camera and the fundamentals of photography.
It was during this time that I met Mr. Nitin Rai, the director of the institute. The moment he walked into the room, his energy was infectious—full of enthusiasm and positivity. He welcomed me, along with the other students, making us feel like we belonged.
And so, the hustle began. Our classes were held on weekends, but the real learning happened during the week—we had to shoot, explore, and submit our work regularly. Twenty-four classes, three months of relentless practice, and just like that, I completed my course and returned to Jalandhar.
But was that enough to truly begin my photography journey?
I knew I needed more. I spoke to my parents about a one-year diploma program—a more advanced course where I could refine my skills and expand my knowledge. They listened, understood, and, most importantly, supported me. Their words were simple but powerful: Follow your heart, but do it with full dedication.
With their encouragement, I made my decision. I packed my bags once again and headed back, ready to dive even deeper into the world of photography.
The day had finally arrived—24th September 2018, Convocation Day. Excitement buzzed in the air as I stepped onto the lush green campus, reunited with my batchmates and faculty. Two adorable dogs roamed around, adding to the warmth of the place.
The faculty briefed us on what lay ahead—the requirements we needed to fulfil to earn our diploma. The highlight of the program would be a grand photography exhibition, showcasing the best work submitted by students. But there were no guarantees—our work wouldn’t automatically make it to the walls. Only the strongest, most impactful photographs would be displayed.
With that, the journey truly began. Early morning metro rides to shoot locations, late-night editing sessions—I went through it all. The days were intense, but the learning was unmatched. The institute often hosted masterclasses where senior photographers would visit to guide us.
Then came the moment I had been waiting for—our first class with Padma Shri awardee and my guru, Mr. Raghu Rai. As he entered the room, we were all in awe. Of course, I was both nervous and excited—this legend was about to see my work. His words stayed with me:
“Never leave your camera. Take it with you wherever you go—you never know where you’ll find a great image.”
Over time, I had the privilege of meeting incredible professionals like Gurinder Osan, Saunak Banerjee, senior journalist Usha Rai, and many more. Every interaction, every critique, and every lesson added to my growth as a photographer.
Time flew by, and soon enough, the big day arrived—15th September 2019, Exhibition Day. Maneka Gandhi was the chief guest, alongside Raghu Rai. My parents, sister, and brother-in-law—were all there to witness my milestone moment.
I was already overwhelmed with happiness but then came a surprise. Maneka Gandhi had a complaint about one of my images! To many, that might sound like criticism, but to me, it was a sign that my work had made an impact. I was on cloud nine. In that moment, all the sleepless nights, the long hours, and the relentless hard work felt worth it.
With my diploma completed and my certificate in hand, I returned home—one chapter closed, but a much bigger journey had just begun.
2020
LOCKDOWN…
I had just started working as a freelancer, taking on projects in two or three cities when the big news broke—India was going into lockdown to contain the virus. Life came to a sudden halt, and everything felt uncertain.
On April 4, 2020, something unexpected happened. I was in the kitchen with my mother while my father was on the roof. A few minutes later, I heard him calling out—his voice filled with excitement. “The mountains are visible!” he said. I was stunned. How was that even possible? He urged me to bring my camera and see for myself.
I rushed upstairs, and there they were—majestic and distant yet suddenly so clear. It felt as if the mountains had always been there, hidden in plain sight, concealed by the everyday pollution. Without hesitation, I took my camera and captured the moment.
Back inside, I transferred the image to my laptop and showed it to my father. In my excitement, however, I made one crucial mistake—I forgot to add my logo. My father shared the image with his friends, and within hours, it went viral. But no one knew I was the photographer. By the evening, the image had spread globally, yet my name was nowhere attached to it.
Seeing this, my sister suggested I put out a tweet and tag major news channels. I did, and to my surprise, the response was overwhelming. Though it wasn’t possible to make people take the image down, I was finally getting recognition for my work.
A few days later, I received an email from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. They wanted to do an online interview with me about the now-viral image. I couldn’t believe it—this was a huge opportunity. It felt both surreal and proud.
Fast forward to September, another unexpected email landed in my inbox—this time from the BBC, UK. They congratulated me on the image, and after a few exchanges, they revealed something incredible. They were working on a documentary and wanted me to be a part of it. I was stunned.
In December, the BBC team arrived at my house, and the shooting began. The next five days were nothing short of magical—an unforgettable experience working alongside an amazing crew.
After the film’s completion, I received an email from Mr. Tom Beard, the director of the documentary. He informed me that the documentary had a final title: The Year Earth Changed—and it would be released on Apple TV+. If that wasn’t already beyond my wildest dreams, there was one more surprise—Sir David Attenborough was narrating it.
I never imagined that life would take such an extraordinary turn. That a single photograph, taken in an unexpected moment, would lead me to be part of an Apple TV+ documentary.
2021-2023
SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN…
After the whirlwind journey of my viral image, I returned to freelancing, determined to establish myself as an interior architecture photographer. But stepping into this world was anything but easy. I had no prior knowledge of the field, and understanding its nuances felt like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. Still, I kept pushing forward.
I took on projects here and there, but it never felt like enough—I wanted more. I craved growth, challenges, and the chance to refine my craft.
In April 2023, I came across an ad that felt like fate. A senior interior architecture photographer, Mr. Nakul Jain—someone I had admired and followed for a long time—was looking for an assistant. It was the kind of opportunity I had been waiting for. Without hesitation, I applied, gave the interview, and to my excitement, I was selected.
With a mix of nerves and anticipation, I embraced this new challenge. It was time to grow, learn, and evolve in my craft.
Chandigarh. A new city. A new chapter
2023-2025
ENJOY THE SHOW…
May 2023 – Chandigarh, The City Beautiful.
A city designed by the legendary Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, Chandigarh has always fascinated me. Everything about it felt magical—the well-planned roads, the lush green environment, the impeccable maintenance. It was a place that instantly felt welcoming.
On the first day of my new job, Sir greeted me with warmth, and the team was just as wonderful. From the very beginning, I immersed myself in the world of interior architecture photography, learning the workflow, techniques, and artistry that brought spaces to life through the lens.
As time passed, my curiosity led me beyond photography—I delved into cinematography and video editing, expanding my skill set and creative vision. Work took me to various cities, allowing me to explore different cultures, try new cuisines, and experience diverse landscapes. Two of the most memorable shoot trips were Guwahati and Chennai—both vastly different from each other yet equally enriching in their ways.
The studio never felt like a workplace; it was my home away from home—a space where creativity thrived, and every project brought new lessons.
In January 2025, I knew it was time. Time to leap, step out on my own and carve my name in the industry.
2025
HERE I AM…
The beginning of Anshul Chopra Studios…