How has your personal experience or background shaped the themes you explore in your photography?
Growing up in Ukraine through both peaceful and turbulent times has had a profound impact on my photography. My legal studies provided me with a structured, analytical mindset, while my artistic journey, which began in 2022, allowed me to channel emotions and reflect on the human condition. Living through the ongoing war in Ukraine has deepened my appreciation for the fragility of beauty and life. I try to capture moments of hope, resilience, and peace, even amidst turmoil. My photography is a reminder of the simple, yet profound, moments that help to preserve.
What drew you to participate in photography competitions like Px3, and how has this recognition influenced your career?
Competitions like Px3 offer a unique platform for photographers to showcase their work on an international stage. When I started participating, my goal was to share my perspective with a broader audience and connect with other creatives. Winning these awards not only validated my efforts but also helped me push the boundaries of my craft. The recognition has opened doors to prestigious exhibitions and publications, which, in turn, motivate me to continue evolving as an artist. Each award feels like a new chapter in my photographic journey.
Can you walk us through the creative process behind your winning image? Were there any unexpected moments during the shoot?
The inspiration for my winning series, “Underwater Kaleidoscope” stemmed from my fascination with the ethereal beauty of jellyfish. These creatures, with their translucent forms and delicate movements, symbolized exploration and the unknown to me. I approached the shoot with a desire to capture not just their physical beauty but also the sense of fluidity and adaptability they embody.
Unexpected moments did arise, particularly in how the jellyfish interacted with the lighting. At times, their delicate movements caused the light to refract in ways I hadn’t anticipated, creating beautiful and abstract shapes that felt almost otherworldly. These surprises only enriched the creative process, reminding me of the unpredictable nature of photography and the magic that can unfold when you embrace spontaneity.
Ultimately, this project became a visual symphony, celebrating growth, adaptability, and the limitless possibilities that come with venturing into the unknown.
How do you balance technical skill and artistic vision in your work?
For me, technical skill is the foundation that supports artistic vision. Mastering the camera allows me to be free in my creative expression. I believe that technical competence gives me the flexibility to experiment with different techniques, such as multi-exposure or collage, without losing the emotional impact of the image. While I value precision, I always aim to evoke a deeper meaning or emotional response in my work. It’s about finding harmony between the two—where the technical aspects enhance the story I want to tell, rather than overshadowing it.
In what ways do you think photography as a medium can drive social change or impact public perception?
Photography has the unique power to transcend words and communicate directly with emotions. By capturing a single moment, it can reveal truths, inspire empathy, and challenge deeply held perceptions. In my own work, I aim to highlight the beauty of both the natural world and everyday life, urging viewers to slow down, reflect, and recognize the value in what might otherwise be overlooked.
In the context of social change, photography serves as both a witness and a storyteller. It can document injustices, inspire movements, or bring attention to environmental and humanitarian issues. Especially in times of war, images can spark dialogue and mobilize collective action. A powerful photograph doesn’t just illustrate reality; it has the potential to reshape how we understand it, fostering deeper awareness and compassion.
In this sense, photography not only influences perception—it can also be a catalyst for meaningful transformation in society.
Are there any particular genres or subjects you want to explore further in the future?
While I have focused primarily on nature and still life, I am increasingly interested in portrait photography as a means of exploring human emotion and identity. Through portraits, I want to capture the resilience and spirit of people, which is especially important in today’s world. Additionally, I aim to delve deeper into experimental techniques, particularly using analog methods like cyanotype, to add more texture and depth to my work. These new approaches will allow me to expand my visual language and continue challenging the boundaries of photography.
Another important direction for me is to showcase my beautiful country, Ukraine, and its rich culture and traditions. By highlighting both the beauty and the strength of Ukrainian heritage, I hope to share a more personal perspective of my homeland with the world.
What are your long-term goals as a photographer, and how do you plan to evolve your work moving forward?
My long-term goal is to continue developing my unique visual voice and contribute meaningfully to contemporary photography. I want to keep experimenting with various techniques and mediums, pushing myself creatively while remaining true to the emotional essence of my work. Above all, I aim for my photography to inspire people to pause and reflect, especially during difficult times.
As I evolve as an artist, I want my imagery to not only captivate but also uplift, fostering a deeper sense of appreciation for life and the world around us. Through this process, I hope to create work that resonates on a personal level, encouraging people to find beauty and hope even in the most challenging moments.
