Interview with Polina Ivanova
June 5, 2024
— Polina, could you tell us a little about yourself: what you do, where you live, and what you enjoy in your free time?
— I’m a photographer, and I’ve been living in Berlin for a year—a city I’ve loved for many years and which continues to inspire me. In my free time, I enjoy working on creative projects, coming up with new shoots, and bringing my ideas to life. For me, my work is both a hobby and a form of self-expression, so there’s always time and a desire to create.
— How long have you been a photographer?
— I’ve been with a camera for a long time, over 13 years. I started photographing quite early, and this journey has been filled with various experiences that have taught me a lot and shaped my style.
— How did your vision as a photographer take shape?
— My vision was shaped by years of observation and a desire to capture not only a person’s appearance but also a piece of myself in each portrait. Each of my works carries a part of my character, my views, and what I value in people and the world around us. My portraits reflect not only the subject but also a bit of myself as an artist, always striving for authenticity and depth.
— Why do you prefer working in a studio?
— Working in a studio provides a blank, clean space free from distractions. In such a setting, it’s easier for a person to open up, feel free, and trust the process. This creates a stronger connection between me and the subject, allowing me to capture genuine emotions and convey them in the photograph.
— Why did you choose minimalism as the foundation of your photography?
— I believe minimalism has strength and depth. When there’s nothing extra in the frame, what remains is the essence—the personality and emotions. The purity, calmness, and simplicity help me create an atmosphere of sincerity, where the model feels free and natural, and the viewer sees only the essence.
— What, in your opinion, is the most important quality for a photographer?
— Besides professional skills, I believe empathy is crucial. It’s important to listen and understand that not everyone feels comfortable in front of a camera. Having the experience of being photographed is also helpful for a photographer, when you’ve been on the other side of the lens, you better understand what the person is feeling, which makes the shoot more respectful and alive.
— How do you help your subjects feel confident and comfortable while maintaining the artistry of the image?
— I try to create a comfortable, calm environment and allow the person to be themselves. During the shoot, I pay attention to natural movements so that the poses and expressions appear organic, without overwhelming the subject with staging or complex directions.
— What do you want people to feel when they look at your work?
— I hope my photos remind people of who they are at this moment in life, not only outwardly but also internally. In every shot, I try to convey something personal and sincere, so that the viewer sees not just an image, but the mood and story behind it.
— What is the main significance of portrait photography to you?
— For me, portrait photography is a profound exploration of the person, an opportunity to show both their strength and vulnerability in a single frame. During the shoot, a special connection forms between me and the subject, making the portrait a true work of art that reflects not only the person but also my own perspective as a photographer. Photography, to me, is not just about the final result but also the process, where real magic happens. During the session, the person reveals themselves, and each shot becomes part of this wonderful creative dialogue.
— How do you envision your work in the future? Are there any directions you’d like to explore?
— In the future, I want to continue developing my style and take on more creative projects. I dream of holding my own exhibition in Berlin to share my vision and connect with viewers. I’m also open to new formats and methods, always striving to keep sincerity and connection in my work, which makes each portrait unique. I hope my photography helps people see beauty in simplicity and appreciate the moments that often slip by in the hustle of everyday life.e viewer sees not just an image, but the mood and story behind it.