Meet Timofey Abel

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Timofey Abel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Timofey, so great to have you sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our readers and so let’s jump right into one of our favorite topics – empathy. We think a lack of empathy is at the heart of so many issues the world is struggling with and so our hope is to contribute to an environment that fosters the development of empathy. Along those lines, we’d love to hear your thoughts around where your empathy comes from?

I immigrated to the USA from Russia when I was 7. Many of the people my family surrounded ourselves with were political refugees – just like us. As long as I can remember, my parents have always helped others out, from preparing documents to finding housing and work and etc. Growing up, I heard many horrific stories about the Russian government, and even saw a lot of my family members face these challenges. This helped me develop empathy, and a true interest in the stories and life of others. In my photography, people are the most thing. It’s impossible to connect with people without empathy, and hence this quality is a very important part of what I do.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m connecting with people and culture. Atlanta is a unique city, with so many talented people that I feel honored to know and work with. My style is emotional, sometimes described as “dramatic” and “cinematic”. The most important thing is people, and I approach every photoshoot as a collaborative process, in which connection and good energy is key.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I would say that taste is #1. I grew up having visited 30 countries before I turned 18. I spent countless days in museums and historical sites. We often had friends in each country, and we would hear their unique visions and stories. I soaked everything in. I’m grateful to have come from a very well-rounded, well-read and interesting family. My dad is a bibliest, author and entrepreneur. His life has always inspired me. He became an invalid when he was 17, and created a whole new life after. When we were born, we escaped Russia as a family. I watched my dad and mom struggle for years to create a new life, one that was completely different to that in Russia. This brings me to #2, resilience. The industry is often toxic. It’s hard, especially when you’re starting out. Having resilience and an independent mindset are the biggest reasons I’m here. I moved out my parents house the second I turned 18, and built a life I feel like helps me stay inspired and hardworking. It’s still very hard. The industry is forever changing, and so is my life. #3 is empathy. Empathy is the reason I can relate and uplift others, which is the most important thing in my work as a photographer.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I’m looking to collaborate with fashion designers as well as clothing brands. Email [email protected] to connect with me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://timofeyabel.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timofeyabel/

Image Credits

Photography by Timofey Abel