Paul Tocatlian

Photographer

• Instagram

Hi, I’m Paul Tocatlian, and photography is how I celebrate what makes us bold and what inspires us to dream bigger. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, my camera has taken me across five continents, collaborating with incredible creatives from all corners of the globe. Home? It’s wherever inspiration hits, whether in California’s ever-inspiring glow, navigating the fast-paced fashion scenes of New York and Paris, or discovering a new destination, I’m always chasing that next spark of creativity.

What really drives me is the connection with those I work alongside. Brands, designers, models, and creatives alike. I’m drawn to more than just capturing what’s in front of the lens; it’s about the stories, the emotions, and the authenticity that come to life. Fashion, style, and personality all blend into a larger journey. A moment in time that feels alive, unique, and powerful. Every image becomes part of a bigger narrative, celebrating individuality and self-expression.

The most exciting part of this journey is the collaborative spirit behind every project. Photography isn’t a solo act. It’s a partnership where everyone, from designers and stylists to models, works together to create something unforgettable. Whether it’s the pulse of runway coverage at New York Fashion Week or the creative direction of an editorial shoot, each experience has its own rhythm. I thrive in this balance of spontaneity and intention, where the most authentic stories come to life.

At the end of the day, my mission is simple: to connect, to inspire, and to remind everyone I work with that they’re capable of being bold and dreaming bigger. Whether capturing the rush of a runway or shaping an editorial narrative, my goal is always to create something meaningful that resonates beyond the moment. I’d love to collaborate on your next project. Feel free to reach out and let’s bring your vision to life together.

Paul Tocatlian: Capturing the Essence of Fashion and Editorial in the Bay Area and Beyond

For those in search of a photographer who combines artistry with a meticulous approach, Paul Tocatlian is an award-winning and published photographer that offers a distinct perspective in the world of fashion and editorial photography. With a deep connection to the San Francisco Bay Area and a portfolio that extends globally, Paul captures images that tell stories, blending technical precision with creative expression.

A Focus on Fashion and Editorial Photography

Paul’s expertise lies in fashion and editorial photography, where his attention to detail ensures each shoot is thoughtfully executed. Whether working on a high-fashion project, a lifestyle editorial, or a commercial shoot, his approach is versatile, adapting to the needs of each client and project.

Local Roots, Global Reach

While based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Paul’s work takes him far San Francisco and San Jose. He frequently works in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris, collaborating with clients and creatives in these major fashion capitals. His ability to adapt to different environments and capture the essence of each location allows his photography to resonate across various cultures and industries.

A Collaborative Process

Paul’s work is built on collaboration. He takes the time to understand the vision of his clients and partners, ensuring that every image aligns with their goals. His process is approachable and thoughtful, making the experience enjoyable while delivering results that feel genuine and impactful.

Photography Services

Paul offers a wide range of photography services, including:

Fashion & Editorial Photography: Specializing in high-fashion, beauty, lookbooks, and e-commerce photography, Paul works with brands and designers to create stunning visuals that stand out. His editorial work includes fashion editorials, lifestyle shoots, and portraiture, focusing on narrative-driven imagery.

Branding & Identity Photography: From commercial photography to advertising campaigns and professional portraits, Paul helps brands, and the people behind them, bring their stories to life.

Photoshoot Locations

Paul’s work spans the Bay Area, from San Francisco to San Jose, but he also frequently travels for projects in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris. This combination of local roots and global reach allows him to offer a unique perspective, bringing his understanding of the Bay Area to international shoots and vice versa.

If you’re interested in working with a photographer who blends technical precision with creative vision, Paul is ready to collaborate. Contact us to discuss your project and explore how he can help bring your ideas to life through photography.

Tracing The Origins

While Paul’s first photoshoot collaborations took place on the streets of Saigon, it was in Melbourne where he truly honed and refined his craft, evolving his photography into a more dynamic and expressive form. The Melbourne Portraits Project: A Photographic Ode represents the culmination of this growth, where the city’s vibrant energy and diverse people inspired him to transform the streets into his studio.

Over the course of this project, Paul conducted more than 100 photoshoots that capture the resilience and creativity of Melbourne’s creative community during the COVID-19 pandemic. These photographs celebrate individuality and demonstrate the power of photography to connect, inspire, and empower, turning everyday moments into stories of strength and artistic expression.