Sumanth Reddy Bolledla: My work has become more intentional and emotionally focused by trusting my instincts and letting the story lead

Can you tell us about your journey into photography and how your initial creative curiosity evolved into a focused storytelling practice?

I began photography out of pure curiosity, which gradually evolved into a passion for storytelling. Over time, I realized I was more interested in expressing emotion and identity than simply creating images, and that shift shaped my approach.

How would you describe your visual style, and what draws you to editorial fashion and cinematic aesthetics?

My style is bold, clean, and emotionally driven. Editorial fashion and cinematic aesthetics attract me because they allow space for mood, narrative, and intention within a single frame.

Emotion and individuality are central themes in your work—how do you bring those qualities out in your subjects?

I focus on creating a relaxed, collaborative environment. By allowing subjects to feel comfortable and present, their natural expressions and individuality come through organically.

You primarily work in studio and controlled indoor environments. What does this setting allow you to express creatively?

Studio environments give me full control over light and composition, allowing me to create focused, intentional imagery without distractions.

How do light, mood, and composition influence the stories you aim to tell through your images?

These elements shape the emotional language of my work. I use them deliberately to support the story rather than as purely technical choices.

What does “empowering imagery” mean to you, and how do you translate that concept into your portraits?

To me, empowering imagery is about confidence and authenticity. I aim to create portraits where subjects feel strong, seen, and comfortable in their own presence.

Fashion and portrait photography often overlap in your work—how do you balance aesthetics with authenticity?

I treat fashion as a supporting element, not the focus. The goal is always to let the subject’s personality lead while aesthetics enhance the story.

Can you walk us through your creative process, from concept development to the final image?

My process starts with a concept or mood and evolves naturally during the shoot. I keep things flexible and refine the final image through subtle, intentional editing.

How has your work evolved over time, and what has influenced that evolution most strongly?My work has become more intentional and emotionally focused over time, influenced by experimentation and trusting my creative instincts.

What role does self-expression and modern beauty play in your current and future projects?These themes are central to my current and future projects, as I aim to explore beauty through individuality, strength, and authenticity.

Are there any photographers, filmmakers, or artists who have significantly inspired your approach?

I draw inspiration from editorial fashion, cinema, and contemporary visual art rather than any single individual. And I do learn the skills from various artists

What can audiences expect next from you, and where can they follow your latest work?

I’m continuing to develop fashion editorials and creative portrait projects. My latest work can be found on Instagram at @HaVaSu.clicks and my portfolio at havasuclicks.com

Makeup Artist: Thusy Makeup @thusy_makeup

Model: Monique Simon @monique.mickey

Photographer: Sumanth Reddy Bolledla @havasu.clicks

Fashion Designer: Rice Apparel @rice_apparel

Creative Director: Riya Keshary @kesharyofficial