Tell us a little bit about your photography - where are you based and what type of photography do you currently enjoy?
I'm a wedding photographer, I shoot digital and film (35mm and 120mm, as well as Super 8.)
In only a couple of words, how would you describe your style of photography?
Kristina is a wedding photographer. Her photography style is luxurious and refined. She crafts romantic photos to cherish for years to come. Kristina shoots digital, film and Super 8 film, which gives a timeless quality and a vintage look. She is inspired by the tenderness of two souls coming together and showcases your one-of-a-kind love story. Her photography leads you back to the romance of it all.
Tell us about one of your most memorable photoshoots or perhaps a favourite photo you have taken?
In every wedding day, I have favourites. I genuinely believe that capturing these days, these gatherings of family and friends, is the most significant and important form of art. One day, I was capturing a bride as she reread her vows by the window. Her fragile and moved voice, the powerful words she had put on paper, and the incredible light that entered and embraced her face. I captured that moment when a tear of happiness rolled down her cheek. This photo had a touch of the "Scapigliata" by Leonardo da Vinci.
As a photographer, nurturing your creativity while trying to balance self employment and life can be a little tricky sometimes. Where do you find the inspiration to continue creating and maintaining consistency?
Absolutely, maintaining a balance between creative pursuits, self-employment, and personal life can indeed be challenging. For me, inspiration is a blend of experiences and practices that fuel my creativity and ensure consistency.One of my most significant sources of inspiration comes from my experiences working with various social causes and engaging in humanitarian work. Through these endeavors, I've connected with people from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Their stories of resilience and the pursuit of hope amidst adversity have deeply impacted me. Collaborating with nonprofits to narrate these stories of strength and beauty in challenging situations keeps me grounded and reminds me of the purpose behind my creative work.Additionally, I've discovered that nurturing my creativity often involves embracing a playful spirit. I schedule "play dates" with my camera, allowing myself to experiment and explore without any specific purpose. This reconnects me with my inner child and sparks fresh ideas that I can later incorporate into my work.Daily journaling has also proven to be a valuable practice. It's a private space where I can pour out my thoughts, ideas, and reflections. This habit not only helps me process my experiences but also serves as a wellspring of creative inspiration. It's amazing how often moments of insight arise from these introspective sessions.In essence, my inspiration is drawn from the profound stories I've encountered and the resilience of the human spirit. Balancing self-employment and creativity is an ongoing journey, and these practices help me maintain the consistency I strive for while also enriching my life with purpose and innovation.
Having grown as a photographer, is there any piece of advice that you could give to yourself when you first started down this path, or wish you had known sooner?
Absolutely, reflecting on my journey as a photographer, there are several pieces of advice I wish I could give myself when I first embarked on this path. Here are some valuable insights I've gained along the way:Seize the Opportunity Sooner: One thing I'd tell my past self is to go full time as a photographer earlier. It's natural to have concerns and doubts, but taking that leap of faith can often lead to unexpected growth and opportunities. The sooner you fully commit to your passion, the more time you have to hone your skills and establish your presence in the industry.Embrace Risks and Challenges: It's true that some of the most rewarding experiences come from taking risks. It's easy to stick to what's comfortable, but it's the willingness to step out of that comfort zone that propels you forward. Embrace challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles, and remember that each risk you take contributes to your growth and learning.Invest in Your Growth: Photography isn't just about capturing images; it's a business too. Investing in your personal and professional growth is crucial. Early on, I'd advise myself to dedicate time to learning about the business and marketing side of photography. Understanding how to effectively market yourself, manage finances, and handle client relationships can significantly accelerate your success.Network and Connect: Photography is not just a solitary craft; it's a community. Connecting with fellow photographers, mentors, and industry professionals can provide immense guidance and support. Networking not only opens doors to collaborations but also exposes you to diverse perspectives and valuable insights.Never Stop Learning: The photography landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging. Continuously invest in your education. Attend workshops, take online courses, and stay up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. This dedication to learning ensures your work remains fresh and innovative.Value Your Work: It's important to recognize the value of your creativity and expertise. Don't undersell yourself. Pricing your services appropriately not only sustains your business but also reinforces the industry's perception of photography as a valuable art form.Celebrate Progress: The journey of a photographer is marked by milestones and growth. Take time to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Acknowledging your progress boosts your confidence and motivates you to keep pushing your boundaries.In essence, I would encourage my younger self to be bolder, take more risks, and prioritize continuous learning and growth. The path of a photographer is filled with challenges and opportunities, and embracing both aspects is what truly leads to a fulfilling and successful journey.
Is there anything special you have been working on - mentoring, workshops, courses etc. We'd love to let other photographers know!
Currently, I'm deeply immersed in some exciting projects that I'd love to share with fellow photographers:Videography Venture with Theyelles.co: I'm investing a lot of time and energy in building our second company specializing in videography, alongside my husband. It's been an inspiring journey to develop the art of videography, and we're thrilled to offer this dynamic storytelling medium to our clients.Humanitarian Projects: I'm passionately involved in humanitarian projects that focus on sharing stories of hope and resilience. Through the Instagram account Histoires d'Espoir, I'm collaborating with diverse individuals and communities to amplify stories of positive change. This project not only allows me to document inspiring journeys but also contributes to raising awareness about important social issues.Upcoming Documentary in Rwanda: I'm in the early stages of working on a documentary project based in Rwanda, scheduled for next winter. This endeavor is particularly close to my heart as it combines my love for storytelling with my desire to shed light on the transformative power of human experiences. I'm excited about the potential of this project to bring meaningful narratives to a wider audience.These ventures have been incredibly fulfilling, and they reflect my commitment to using storytelling as a tool for connection, change, and creativity. I'm always eager to connect with other photographers and creators who share similar passions or are interested in collaborating on meaningful projects. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to know more or explore potential collaborations! 
What gear are you currently using and what would you typically carry in your Kamrette camera bag?
What I carry: 2 x fuji XT41 x 23 mm1 x 56 mm1x 16 mm1x Contax t21x Nikon f100 + 50mm6 batteries, Goddox flash, batteries, SD card holder, chargers, lipstick, hairbrush, mints, deodorant aha!
Let's finish it off with a fan favourite - if you could only have one lens, which one would you choose?
35 mm 1,4 (which is my 23mm fujinon)
