We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Anna Ivanova. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Anna below.
Anna, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
In my journey as a portrait photographer in the creative field, I’ve worked on boosting my confidence and self-esteem through various means. First off, I got a diploma in photography, which gave me a good starting point. But I didn’t stop there. I’ve taken extra courses with experienced photographers who gave me feedback on my work. Their advice helped me get better at what I do.
I’m always trying to learn new things and keep up with what’s popular in photography. This keeps my work fresh and makes me feel more confident about my skills.
I’ve also entered some big photography contests, and a few times my work got recognized. It feels great to have others appreciate what I do, and it gives me a confidence boost.
Lastly, I listen to what my clients have to say about my work. Their feedback helps me understand what they like and what I can improve, which makes me a better photographer overall.
So, through a mix of education, learning, recognition, and listening to clients, I’ve been able to grow my confidence and feel good about my work as a portrait photographer.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Over the past seven years, I’ve pursued various forms of portrait photography across three states: Texas, Utah, and California. Initially, I worked extensively with families, but upon relocating to Utah, I shifted my focus to model tests and branding photography for professionals. It has always brought me immense joy to work with people and deliver high-quality images.
But the real game-changer came when I moved to Los Angeles and assumed the role of Art Director for an artisan jewelry brand from London. This opportunity allowed me to delve into the realm of visual storytelling through product photography and curating compelling imagery for a unique jewelry line. What sets this experience apart is the multifaceted nature of my role—I not only honed my photography skills but also did a deep dive into product and e-commerce photography, crafted impactful lookbooks, and experimented with artistic still-lifes.
In my role as Art Director, I’ve spearheaded initiatives to revamp the brand’s digital presence, aligning its website and social media aesthetics with its distinctive ethos. It’s immensely gratifying to see the tangible impact of my art direction reflected in the brand’s online sales.
What truly resonates with me is the opportunity to merge creativity with purpose. Whether I’m capturing emotions in portraits or weaving brand narratives through visuals, each project presents a chance to express myself authentically and forge meaningful connections with viewers.
As I gaze towards the future, I am eager to continue expanding my horizons, exploring new photography genres, and embracing fresh challenges with an open mind and a creative spirit. Whether it’s art directing, photographing products, or capturing the essence of individuals in portraits, I am committed to delivering excellence in every endeavor.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
First of all, I believe my adaptability plays a significant role in my professional development. Being able to adapt to new environments, roles, and challenges has been crucial in navigating different phases of my career. Whether transitioning between photography styles or taking on the role of an Art Director, my adaptability allowed me to embrace change and thrive in diverse settings. For those early in their journey, I recommend being open to new opportunities, even if they seem complicated and require significant energy or resources. Acquiring skills and experiences now can play a crucial role in the future. View challenges as chances to learn and evolve.
Secondly, my personal sense of aesthetics, visual memory, and extensive knowledge of Art have been central to my work as a photographer and Art Director. They have enabled me to find innovative solutions and connect with audiences on a deeper level through visual storytelling, symbolism, and common visual archetypes. Train your eye by exploring various art forms and genres. Do not limit yourself to one genre within your field; also study all creative industries, from fashion to architecture.
As you can see, throughout my journey, I’ve recognized the importance of lifelong learning and skill development. From honing my photography techniques to expanding my knowledge of branding and marketing strategies, embracing a mindset of continuous improvement has been key to staying relevant and adaptable in a rapidly evolving industry.
Additionally, exploring and studying top creatives in my industry, especially those whom I admire, has been invaluable. I delve into their career journeys, studying how they reached the pinnacle of success and examining the instruments and techniques they employ. By immersing myself in their experiences and insights, I gain valuable knowledge and inspiration to fuel my own growth and development.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I’m so thankful to my mom for showing me the world through travel. When I was 12, we went to Italy together. It was amazing! Going from our small town to vibrant Italy was like stepping into a whole new world. I fell in love with everything there—the cool sea breeze, the beautiful buildings, and all the art. Italy still inspires me today. Thanks for asking about this, it brought back fantastic memories!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.annaiv.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gorjetto
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ivanovaphotographer
Image Credits
Models: Sveta, Katy,Anna,Mia,Angelika,Snejana,Kayler
