RUSSIAN PHOTOGRAPHER EKATERINA BELINSKAYA

Russian Photographer Ekaterina Belinskaya

Ekaterina Belinskaya is a Russian born photographer and visual artist who is based in Los Angeles. She describes her style as dark, romantic, storytelling. She loves art that makes you feel something and think.  Her main purpose is to give beauty and feelings through her art. Color and light are the tools that help her to show her world.

When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?

Sometimes I feel that it meant to be. I always loved movies about photographers. I always thought that photography is pure magic. Just think! We are able to capture what our eyes can see!! But I started photography when I was 19, after getting my first real camera… At age 25 I quit my office job and since then it’s my full-time job/life passion.

What is most important at the moment you take a picture?

Always the feelings. You should feel the love when you create and put it into your creature.

From where you get your inspiration?

From everything! Movies, music, art, light, shadows, people I work with, places…

How do you look for the perfect spots?

For the idea I already have I know how the place should look like and I google it or scout till I find it.

Describe a typical shoot?

I create a  good board to show my team the idea: of the mood/vibe, of the make-up and hair look, styling. Then we discuss. The team work is very important and I’m blessed to work with the most talented people. When we all agree and love the look for my idea: I set up the lights (if it’s a studio shoot), while the beauty team creates its magic. Then I shoot.. On location, I use natural light most of the time.

Were you educate in photography, or are yourself taught?

I’m self-taught

What camera do you use most of the time?

Since I started I use Canon, but now I really interested in Sony Alpha. I hope to get my own baby the next year.

Which photo are you currently most proud of?

It’s hard… I have about my favorite 50 pictures that I love and can’t choose from them.

How is the fashion industry in your home country?

I think it’s growing. We have a lot of talents and they create! Can’t wait to see what happens in a few years.

Comparing where you are now with where you are when you first started, what could you have done differently to get to where you are sooner?

I don’t like to regret. Our way is our way and I had to go it as I did. I would change nothing. Even my office job, and education time… I spend almost 9 Yeats for that. And I could say: don’t be afraid. Quit earlier. Do what you love and money will come. I won’t say that. Coz everything I went through made me the person who I am now.

Favorite photography book?

Not the photo book but a book about the photographer and the way! I think every photographer should read it. Biography of Helmut Newton. It gave me a lot to think about.

With whom you would like to work the most?

Different talented artists. Too many to name. But I’m working on it.

To know more about Ekaterina, please visit: Ekaterina Belinskaya