Meet Azzama Bochenkova | Photographer & Fashion Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Azzama Bochenkova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Azzama, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The idea of turning something I enjoy into a business has been with me since college. Even as a business major, I was always drawn to creative work, especially photography and fashion, and curious about how to build something of my own.

As I spent several years in corporate recruiting, gaining valuable structure and independence, I often felt disconnected from the kind of work that excited me. I kept creating on the side – shooting portraits, learning styling, and investing in courses to build my visual and creative skills.

Eventually, the corporate path no longer aligned. After a layoff, I decided to take that as a sign to finally focus on what I love. Now, I’m in a new season. My work blends photography and styling with a focus on clean, expressive imagery and visual storytelling. I’m still early in my journey, but I’m building with care, purpose, and heart.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a photographer and fashion stylist, passionate about using both of my creative skillsets to help people connect with their individuality through imagery and style. I believe that visual beauty has the power to uplift and inspire – it reminds us that we’re here for more than just survival. We’re here to express, explore, and create. That kind of creativity is deeply human, and I see it as something unique to each person or brand.

Through both photography and styling, I aim to reflect and celebrate that authentic beauty. When we experience something thoughtfully crafted or visually striking, we connect more deeply and appreciate life in new ways. For individuals, I want my work to empower and inspire them. For brands, I want to capture the essence of what they offer and help tell a meaningful story.

I think the influence from my childhood contributed to me choosing photography. It runs in my family – my grandfather was a photographer – and I remember spending time with his art books and photographs. Later, when I was working in corporate, there were long stretches where every day felt the same. Eventually, I realized I needed to make a change and create space for something creative if I wanted to feel truly fulfilled.

Starting my business was a risk. Letting go of stability to pursue something creative and personal meant stepping into the unknown. Creative work is vulnerable – you’re putting something subjective into the world and hoping it resonates. But I’ve learned that taking risks is the only way to build something real. I still remember how intimidating my first brand shoot or first fashion show felt, but I showed up, did the work, and gained confidence by doing.

I’ve come to believe that passion and perseverance are equally important. I’ve always been pretty hard on myself, and I’m not trying to project an overly polished version of myself or my brand. I’m building as I go. I didn’t wake up one day with a camera and a business plan – I followed curiosity. I think people can sense when something is created with sincerity, and they respond to that.

My ultimate goal is to become the best creative artist I can possibly be.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, I’d plan a week that blends iconic nyc moments with my favorite local gems. We’d start with art – MoMA and the Met are non-negotiable. They always leave me inspired. A walk through Central Park would follow, especially if the weather’s good- maybe with coffee in hand and nowhere to rush.

One day would definitely be reserved for a photoshoot in one of Brooklyn’s photo studios – playing dress up and making memories. At night, could go dance at Superior Ingredients, one of my favorite rooftops with great music and energy.

We’d spend an afternoon shopping in Soho, stopping for pizza at Rubirosa or a quick bite in Nolita. I’d make sure we ended the trip on a high note: a visit to the Edge for beautiful city views, then a relaxing afternoon at World Spa to unwind.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my partner, Michael. His support and encouragement mean a lot to me, especially as I build a new business. He’s been a steady, grounding presence through all the ups and downs.

Website: https://kavyar.com/p24tqtmuwtzu

Instagram: @abocphoto , @azzama_bochenkova

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azzama-bochenkova/