There’s a rare kind of magic in the work of photographer Sharma S. Rodriguez-Colón, known as Sharma Shari, an artist whose lens captures not only vivid fantasy and fandom, but also the deeply personal and profoundly human.
A proud Puerto Rican creative, Sharma Shari’s own Sharma Shari Photography focuses on the type of creative photos that bring a rich cultural perspective to every frame, blending her heritage with a love for geek culture, storytelling, and authenticity.
Her journey has been nothing short of inspiring. One that’s not just a story about growth, but also one that shows all of us that there’s a certain beauty behind being brave and believing in yourself, and your future.
And this is not only during those beautiful moments in life, but also during those times that you just need to channel your inner strength and face, at times, unexpected challenges.
In addition to building a standout photography brand that celebrates individuality and imagination, Sharma has courageously faced, and currently beat, breast cancer.
This is a battle that has only strengthened her purpose and empathy.
More than a talented artist, Shari is also my best friend and someone I consider a sister. During moments when anxiety and ADHD led me to self-doubt, she reminded me of my strength, and not only through her words, but through her lens.
I’ve stood in front of her camera as Moana, as Captain Marvel, and as myself. And I can truly say: Shari creates a space where you feel powerful, joyful, and deeply cared for. Anyone who works with her will walk away with more than just photos, they’ll leave with memories, confidence, and magic.
Aurora Dominguez as Moana.
We took the time to talk to Sharma about her craft, her background and her passion for photography and for bringing out the best in others through her art.
Your work captures a unique blend of geek culture, creative storytelling, and personal moments. What draws you to these themes in your photography?
I am a geek who loves stories and how they can become part of my everyday life. Geek culture offers a rich tapestry of storytelling, and I find it fascinating how deeply people connect to these narratives. By incorporating these elements into my photography, I’m able to capture that emotional connection between the subject and the viewer. Whether it's fantasy, sci-fi, or personal moments, storytelling allows me to craft images that resonate on a deeper level. I enjoy blending the fantastical with the real, creating a unique mix of imagination and authenticity in my work.
You’ve photographed a variety of events, from weddings to geeky-themed shoots. What has been your most memorable or meaningful session so far?
It's tough to choose just one, as each session feels so unique! I’ve made it a priority to work with clients who are eager to be captured in their most authentic selves, whether it's on their wedding day, in cosplay, or for professional headshots. Each experience is different because I get to showcase their true personalities and passions, which makes every shoot meaningful and memorable in its own way. But if I really need to choose, I will say any wedding where the couple has broken traditions and expectations like having a T.A.R.D.I.S. in the middle of the reception.
Battling breast cancer has been a life-changing experience for you. How has this journey influenced your passion for photography and the way you approach your work?
Battling breast cancer has been a life-changing experience for me. It has made me more appreciative of the small, beautiful moments that we often take for granted. I’ve always loved capturing authentic, personal moments in photography, but going through this journey has deepened my understanding of how precious life really is. It’s given me a stronger sense of empathy and a deeper connection with my clients, especially when they trust me to capture such intimate parts of their lives. It’s reminded me that photography is not just about the images, but about preserving meaningful moments that people will treasure forever.
Traveling seems to be a big part of your life. How does exploring different places inspire your photography?
Traveling has been such a huge inspiration for my photography. Exploring new places exposes me to different cultures, landscapes, and perspectives, which I love capturing through my lens. Each destination brings its own unique vibe, and that energy often translates into the photos I take. Whether it’s the architecture of a city, the natural beauty of a remote location, or the people I meet along the way, traveling constantly challenges me to see things differently and push my creativity further. It’s one of the best ways to recharge and find new inspiration for my work.
Pursuing a creative career often comes with challenges. How has the support from family, friends, and clients helped you push forward in your journey?
The support from my family, friends, and clients has been invaluable in my creative journey. There have been plenty of tough moments where I’ve questioned myself, but having a solid support system has helped me stay focused and push through. My family and friends are always there to offer encouragement and remind me why I started this path in the first place. My hubby's support has been especially crucial — he's my rock, my player #2, always there to offer guidance, cheer me on, and help me stay grounded. And my clients? Their trust in me to capture their most important moments has been both motivating and inspiring. Their positive feedback and appreciation keep me going, constantly reminding me that what I do matters.
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers, especially those looking to carve out their own niche in creative and geek culture photography?
My advice would be to embrace what makes you unique and lean into your passions. If you’re drawn to geek culture or creative photography, don’t be afraid to show that side of yourself — it will help you attract clients who resonate with your style and vision. Take the time to develop your craft, experiment with new ideas, and be open to learning from every shoot. Build a strong community around you, whether it's fellow photographers, fans of the culture, or clients, because those connections can support and inspire you. And most importantly, stay true to your vision. Your authenticity will set you apart and make your work shine.
Your photography beautifully embraces geek culture. What are some of your favorite shows, characters, or fandoms that inspire your work?
My photography is heavily inspired by geek culture, especially characters and stories that have stuck with me over the years. I’m a huge fan of the 10th Doctor’s quirky charm, Ashoka and Princess Leia’s strength, and characters like Captain Marvel and Scarlet Witch who really own their power. I also love the dark, whimsical vibe of '80s fantasy films like Labyrinth. Studio Ghibli films always spark my creativity, and I can’t get enough of the adventures in Back to the Future and The Goonies. These all influence the way I tell stories through my photos and help me capture those magical, larger-than-life moments.
You have a gift for making people feel comfortable and truly themselves in front of the camera. How do you hope to continue growing your business to attract more clients while helping them feel secure, embrace who they are, and have fun during their sessions?
I really believe that creating a comfortable and fun environment is key to helping clients feel at ease and truly themselves in front of the camera. Moving forward, I want to focus on building a deeper connection with my clients before the shoot even begins — whether through consultations or just getting to know them more, so they feel like they’re working with a friend. I also plan to showcase more behind-the-scenes moments and personal stories on my website and social media, so potential clients can see how I bring out the best in people. By continuing to focus on empathy and authenticity, I hope to attract clients who want to embrace their true selves and have a blast while doing it. My goal is for every session to feel less like a “photo shoot” and more like an experience they’ll remember fondly.
How has your journey from Puerto Rico to the U.S. shaped your perspective and approach to photography?
Moving from Puerto Rico to the U.S. was a huge shift for me, not just geographically, but also culturally. While Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes deeply influenced my photography, arriving in the U.S. brought a mix of excitement and cultural shock. I quickly realized that, despite my white appearance, I still faced moments of racism and misunderstanding about my Puerto Rican background. That experience has shaped how I approach my work, especially when it comes to storytelling and showing the richness of Puerto Rican culture. I want to use my photography to shed light on the beauty of my heritage and the complexities of identity, and to share more about Puerto Rico’s unique perspective and the resilience of its people. I feel it’s important to highlight those personal stories, because they’re often overlooked or misunderstood, and through my photography, I want to challenge that.
For more information or to book a session with Sharma Shari, visit sharmashari.com.
