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If you had asked me years ago where I would be today, I might not have guessed that I’d be living in the Netherlands, capturing the most precious moments of people’s lives through my camera. My journey from Siberia to the Netherlands has been a path of discovery, creativity, and storytelling through photography. In this post, I’ll share how my experiences across different cultures and landscapes have shaped me into the photographer I am today. 

The Beginnings in Russia

I was born and raised in Siberia, surrounded by the vast, untamed beauty of nature. The endless forests, icy winters, and expansive landscapes were a constant source of inspiration. Even as a child, I was fascinated by how much emotion and story could be captured in a single image. My family wasn’t particularly artistic, but they supported my curiosity. What began as a hobby soon blossomed into a passion, as I found myself increasingly drawn to capturing the emotions and stories of those around me—starting with my classmates. 

Exploring Photography in Saint Petersburg and Moscow

My life then led me to Saint Petersburg, where I immersed myself in the vibrant club scene as a photographer. Soon I  transitioned to covering events and personal photoshoots. For eight years, I honed my craft in this bustling city, capturing the energy and emotions of countless individuals. My path also took me to Moscow, where I balanced my love for photography with teaching English.

Documenting the Nenets People

One of the most transformative experiences in my career was working on a documentary about the Nenets people, a nomadic tribe in Siberia, my tribe. I also created two photo albums capturing their way of life. This project was both challenging and rewarding, pushing me out of my comfort zone and deepening my understanding of storytelling through photography. The raw, unfiltered moments I captured during this time remain some of the most powerful images I’ve ever taken. This experience solidified my desire to pursue photography as more than just a hobby—it became my life’s work. In the future, I hope to return to this project, collaborating once again with Erik Soldfeldt, an archaeologist from Stockholm University, to further explore and document the rich culture of the Nenets people. 

A New Chapter in Galicia

Life took another unexpected turn when I moved to Galicia, a region known for its rich history, rugged coastlines, and vibrant culture. The stories of the people I encountered there added a new dimension to my photography. Each face, each scene, carried a depth that I was eager to capture. My time in Galicia allowed me to rethink and refine my craft, teaching me the importance of patience, timing, and genuine connection. I also had the opportunity to release a photography book in Spanish and hold an exhibition in A Coruña, both of which were milestones in my career. 

A New Home in the Netherlands

Eventually, I found my way to the Netherlands, a place that has now become my home. The Netherlands, with its picturesque landscapes and diverse culture, offers endless opportunities for a photographer. Here, I have had the chance to showcase my work, including an upcoming exhibition in Naarden, which I’m incredibly excited about. Restarting photo as actual work. 

My Passion for Artistic Portraits 

While I love all forms of photography, I’ve developed a particular passion for artistic portraits. There’s something deeply fulfilling about capturing the essence of a person, their emotions, and their unique story in a single frame. 

Looking Ahead: New Projects

As I look to the future, I’m excited to start a personal project focused on self-portraits. This will be a new challenge for me, exploring the concept of identity and self-expression through the lens. I believe it will push my creativity in ways I haven’t yet explored and allow me to connect with my audience on a deeper level. I’m even considering studying photography at a university level to deepen my understanding and expand my skills further. 

Why I Love What I Do

Photography, for me, is not just about taking pictures; it’s about telling stories. Every photo has the power to capture a fleeting moment, an emotion, a piece of someone’s soul. I’m grateful to be able to do what I love every day, and I’m excited to continue this journey, meeting new people, and telling their stories through my lens.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. If you’re interested in working together or just want to chat about photography, feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear from you!