Vika Kirillova Captures Lightness and Calm in Her Portraits

Welcome to Hero of the Week, an ongoing series sharing stories from some of the best photographers in the Pexels community.

Based in Yaroslavl, a Russian city to the north-east of Moscow, Vika Kirillova is a photographer and photo workshop leader who brings a light, joyful feeling to all her portraits. Specializing in female portraits and couple shoots, Vika is inspired by the emotions her subjects bring to the camera.

We talked to Vika about how she started with photography and what inspires her work.

Pexels: How did you get started with photography?

Vika: I have been working as a photographer for more than seven years.

I started when I was 14 years old. I took pictures of my friends on the phone for a long time, then my parents bought my first Sony A290 camera, and my journey into photography began with it.

What camera gear do you use?

Now I use Canon 5D mark 2, 50mm, 85mm lens.

What's your favorite type of photography to shoot?

I like to shoot portraits of women and couples, people in love. But my main direction is female portraits.

I like women’s bodies, facial features; all girls are beautiful and when they open up on the shoot, they become more confident. It’s a pleasure to watch this transformation.

What inspires your photography?

In female portraits I am inspired by their calmness and lightness in the photos.

If we talk about couples in love, then it’s about live emotions, I am inspired by their story and the love between each other.

Tell us about your favorite photo on your Pexels profile.

This photo shows a beautiful female portrait in the Scandinavian style. The atmosphere in the frame is relaxed, light; but attracts the eye to stop and consider all the details at the same time.

Who are some other photographers or artists who inspire your work?

I am close to the direction of the work of the famous Italian photographer Alessio Albi.

I also like the work of the Russian photographer @Jane_aver, she also shoots beautiful female portraits for famous brands; her photos attract me.

What's one piece of advice you would give someone who is new to photography?

Shoot more, train more, don’t be afraid to try something new, interact and team up with different specialists.

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