Born in San Bernardino, California, Paul Mpagi Sepuya studied at the University of California, Los Angeles, and later earned his MFA from the University of California, Los Angeles. He emerged as a significant voice in contemporary photography through his focus on the mechanics of the studio environment and the collaborative nature of portraiture.

Sepuya's practice is characterized by the use of mirrors, collage-like layering, and the physical presence of the camera to deconstruct traditional portraiture. His work often features nude subjects, emphasizing intimacy and the tactile qualities of the photographic medium while challenging the viewer's gaze.

His work continues to gain institutional recognition, with his photographs being acquired by major international collections. Recent updates to museum displays, such as those at the Stedelijk Museum, highlight his ongoing contribution to contemporary discourse on identity and the photographic process.