Rala Choi (b.1987), a Seoul-based fine art photographer, begins his image-making process by delving into his innermost thoughts and feelings. 

Through a color palette saturated with a painterly quality, Rala Choi’s photographs create expressive depictions of inner worlds and relationships. His work blurs the boundaries between painting and photography by utilizing the unique textures of film cameras and bold color contrasts. Through his images, he conveys emotions that are both powerful and poetic, offering viewers an evocative and introspective experience.

His experimentation with photography began during his military service in 2006. Afterward, he spent several years working on commercial and commission-based projects, which ultimately felt unfulfilling. Rala credits the support of musicians and friends for allowing him to focus fully on self-directed, introspective artwork. 

For Rala, the creative process is distilled into an intimate production journey. Starting with contemplation and sketches, he brings scenes to life using natural light to express emotions through color, character, and his signature painterly aesthetic. More than just visual beauty, his photography serves as a window into universal emotions and relationships, deeply delving into the essence of the human experience.

Following a successful few years with two sold-out solo shows in Seoul and international exhibitions, Rala has established himself as one of Korea’s most celebrated fine art photographers, while also gaining a devoted global following. In 2022, he was awarded the Photography Grand Prix and Prix du Public at the 37th International Festival of Fashion, Photography, and Accessories, Hyères. Rala’s auction debut at Phillips’ Photographs Auction in 2023 was met with acclaim, achieving a sale far above the original estimate and marking a strong entry into the global art market. 

 His work has been featured in Wallpaper Magazine and on the cover of Frieze Week Seoul, one of the world’s leading art fairs, highlighting his rising prominence in the international art scene.

contact. hello@ralachoi.com