Interview
Anastasiia Terentieva
Anastasiia, originally from Ukraine, is an accomplished photographer based in Carolinas, USA specializing in wedding photography. With over 8 years of experience capturing weddings from various cultural backgrounds, Anastasiia has developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and emotions involved in these special occasions. Certified by the New York Institute of Photography, Anastasiia combines technical expertise with a creative eye to capture timeless and meaningful moments for her clients. Her work goes beyond photography; it embodies her commitment to ensuring couples have a stress-free and memorable wedding day. Anastasiia's dedication to the craft has led her to become a trusted advisor for brides-to-be. Drawing from her extensive experience, she is currently writing a book aimed at helping couples navigate the complexities of wedding planning with confidence and ease. Her goal is to share practical advice and insights that empower couples to create their dream wedding while minimizing stress. In addition to her photography work, Anastasiia is an active member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), where she continues to expand her knowledge and contribute to the photography community.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My background begins in Ukraine, where I grew up amidst challenging political circumstances. Eventually, I had to leave Ukraine and start anew in the United States. It was there that I immersed myself in photography, learning from top photographers and earning a certification in wedding photography from the New York Institute of Photography. I've since photographed over 100 weddings of various nationalities, faiths, and traditions. Prior to my photography career, I worked in law, which equipped me with a sense of responsibility that I carry into capturing such significant moments as weddings, where my reward is seeing happy people. Additionally, I indulge in creative photography projects where I have the freedom to express my thoughts and feelings through my lens.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“As a Ukrainian photographer, my work aims to emphasize the beauty of Ukrainian culture and draw attention to its uniqueness. In today's news, there are often grim scenes of war from Ukraine, which are important for highlighting current events. However, through my photographs, I want to showcase the peaceful, cultural side of Ukraine that is worth protecting and preserving. This cultural heritage is under threat of destruction, and I strive to capture and convey its beauty and significance. My work as a photographer carries a message about the importance of cultural diversity and the preservation of unique traditions. I believe that through images depicting the beauty and authenticity of Ukrainian culture, I can inspire people worldwide to develop a deeper understanding and respect for Ukraine.”
“To me, as a photographer, my art carries profound personal meaning. It's more than just a profession or a hobby - it's a way for me to express my vision of the world and my emotions.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“I meticulously plan my work in advance, investing significant time in developing and refining my ideas before executing them. Each project begins with thorough conceptualization and brainstorming, where I explore various approaches to best capture the essence of my vision. This preparation stage allows me to consider all aspects - from composition and lighting to subject matter and storytelling - in order to ensure that my photographs convey the intended message effectively. While I value spontaneity and the organic moments that arise during a shoot, I find that careful planning enhances the quality and coherence of my work. It allows me to anticipate challenges and opportunities, adapt creatively to unforeseen circumstances, and ultimately achieve the desired artistic outcome. This balance between thoughtful planning and creative improvisation is essential in my process as a photographer, enabling me to produce meaningful and impactful visual narratives that resonate with audiences.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“As a photographer, I find myself drawn to several current trends in the art world. One of the main directions I'm passionate about is exploring minimalism and simplicity in the composition and aesthetics of my photographs. I'm also deeply interested in documentary and photojournalistic photography, using my work to narrate social issues and capture stories that are meaningful and relevant to contemporary society. Additionally, I'm not afraid to experiment with abstract and unconventional approaches, seeking new ways to convey my ideas and emotions through photography.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“To create my artwork, I employ a variety of processes, materials, and techniques that help bring my ideas to life. It all starts with meticulous planning and conceptualization for each project, which involves studying composition, lighting, and selecting appropriate settings and scenes for shooting. I use high-resolution professional cameras and a range of lenses to capture clear and detailed images. Additionally, I often utilize lighting equipment and filters to create specific atmospheres or effects on set. In addition to my own skills, I frequently collaborate with other professionals, such as florists, to incorporate natural elements and picturesque compositions into my photos. Working in a team allows me to achieve more complex and creative results, enriching my work with additional textures and details. In post-processing, I work with digital imaging software to perform color correction, retouching, and other editorial actions to achieve the desired visual effect. Each step of this process - from concept to final output - is crucial in ensuring that my photographs reflect my aesthetic and artistic vision effectively.”
What does your art mean to you?
“To me, as a photographer, my art carries profound personal meaning. It's more than just a profession or a hobby - it's a way for me to express my vision of the world and my emotions. My work allows me to capture moments of beauty and significance, prompting viewers to see their surroundings in a new light. I aim not only to document visual aspects but also to evoke emotional responses and inspire viewers. Each photograph becomes a part of my personal and cultural identity, embodying my values and beliefs.”
What’s your favorite artwork and why?
“As a photographer who often forms images in my mind based on what I've seen, heard, experienced, and felt, my approach to a "favorite artwork" may differ from selecting a specific piece. I find inspiration from various sources and perceive art within the context of my creative process. Instead of choosing a single artwork, my favorite often evolves from a culmination of impressions that evoke an emotional response or spark new ideas. I particularly value works that stir strong emotions or provoke deep reflection. I appreciate art that transforms my perspective or motivates me to explore new creative avenues. My "favorite artwork" embodies what inspires me to create my own unique images and concepts in photography.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I am currently working on my own exhibition, which aims to showcase the essence of Ukrainians, particularly those who are refugees. Given the current events in my home country and where I reside, I want to portray Ukrainians as special individuals whose lives have been disrupted, yet who are educated and talented. These are not immigrants who chose to leave and were prepared for it. Many of them are already building businesses in other countries and striving for normalcy in their lives. I'm aware that perceptions of Ukrainians vary widely around the world, including in the USA. Through my exhibition, I aim to tell the stories of Ukrainians and reveal who we truly are. I believe it's important to bridge the gap in understanding and show the resilience and contributions of Ukrainians in the face of adversity.”
