My Ukranian Family

• Prize
  Winner in Editorial / Photography
• Company
  The Orchard Studio
• Lead
  Christian Mushenko
• Team
  Christian Mushenko
• Client
  personal

My great-grandfather fled Ukraine in 1917 in search of a better life in America. Nearly eight decades later, I had the privilege of returning. Since then, I’ve been back four times, each visit allowing me to reconnect with family and witness a nation in transformation. On the streets, there was often a quiet caution — but behind closed doors, I was embraced with immense warmth. Those experiences deepened my understanding of resilience, identity, and the powerful ties that bridge generations and continents. My heart aches for the families who remain. I can’t begin to imagine their burden.

A photographer/director with strong commercial experience, for over 25 years I have photographed briefs for clients around the globe. A recent move into directing has seen my debut short film 'longing' garner awards on the festival circuit around the globe, and my branching out to shooting/directing television commercials and motion content for global brands.I specialise in shooting premium lifestyle and food work with a style often described as warm and evocative with a cinematic feel. I’m drawn to portraying with beauty and authenticity our humanity, and how we connect with each other.