We’re looking forward to introducing you to Karineh Gurjian. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Karineh, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Having two of my black and white photographs selected for the group exhibition at Blank Wall Gallery in Athens was a truly proud moment. Shortly after, being included in another group show in Barcelona felt like a meaningful acknowledgment of my work. Both opportunities reminded me of the value of staying committed to creative exploration alongside commercial projects.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
What makes my work unique is the balance I maintain between fine art and commercial photography. With over 15 years of experience across editorial, fashion, and luxury product photography, I approach each project with a strong visual narrative and a deep understanding of light and composition. My background spans continents, and that global perspective shapes both my creative direction and storytelling. Currently, I’m developing a new body of fine art work that builds on my “Humans of the World” series—centered on portraiture, connection, and cultural identity—while continuing to lead visual campaigns in the luxury space. My goal is always to create work that resonates emotionally, whether it’s through a brand story or a single frame.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that shaped how I see the world was the first time I looked through a camera and instinctively framed a scene that others responded to emotionally. It was a simple black-and-white photograph I took in high school, but something about the composition, light, and feeling just clicked. That moment was the first time I realized I might have a voice through photography—and that visual storytelling could connect people in a powerful, unspoken way. It set me on the path I’m still on today.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self: Trust your eye and your instincts—your way of seeing the world is your gift. Don’t worry so much about fitting into the mold; the path you’re carving is the right one, even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Authenticity. Whether in creative work or human connection, I believe in staying true to your voice, values, and vision. In a world that often rewards trends, I strive to protect the integrity of storytelling and representation, particularly when it comes to honoring culture, identity, and lived experiences.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m traveling, especially near the ocean. There’s something about walking along a quiet beach, camera in hand, that brings clarity and calm. It’s in those moments, surrounded by light, water, and space, that I feel most connected to my personal art and creative voice. That stillness fuels everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karinehnyc.com/
- Instagram: @karinehnyc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinehnyc/
- Twitter: @karinehnyc.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Karineh13/
Image Credits
@karinehnyc
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