Mustafa Hussain (b.1994) is a South Asian American photojournalist and portrait photographer currently based in Chicago. He most recently obtained a FAA Part 107 drone license. His journalistic work focuses on injustices and trauma in marginalized communities, and has covered the aftermath of mass shootings, HIV outbreaks in Pakistan, and the lives of refugees in the U.S. His portrait work is often inspired by observing masters in their environments. 

In his commercial work, Mustafa works efficiently bringing creative ideas from inception to execution. He is currently open to working on more people-centric projects that emphasize storytelling and community. 

Beyond his practice, Mustafa is committed to photography education, seeing it as both a way to give back and a means to deepen his own understanding of the craft. He teaches middle school photography part-time, guiding young students through the fundamentals while encouraging them to find their own visual language. He has also led lighting workshops and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of photographers, fostering both technical skills and a deeper appreciation for the craft.

Subscribe to Mustafa’s newsletter here!

mustafahussainofficial@gmail.com
Full member of Diversify Photo. RIT Photo/2019.

Available for work in Chicago, Midwest, and elsewhere.

  • FAA Part 107 Licensed Drone Pilot (2025)
  • U.S. National/Pakistani National, able to travel. 
  • Conversational Native Proficiency in Urdu. 
  • HEFAT/Tactical Emergency Casualty Care trained. 
Using Format