The story of when a model becomes a photographer is not a new one. Who better than a model to know what is going on on the other side of the camera? But each similar story hides its own nuances. Here are some interesting thoughts of Victoria Koldysheva (@vikakoldysheva).
How did it all begin?
I am self-taught. It all began six years ago at the Next modelling contract in Milan. I was extremely homesick and subsequently I decided I needed some sort of outlet. I had a small amateur camera that always accompanied me on my trips. I started shooting my model friends and showed pictures to my Italian agency who liked them very much. It gave me hope and an understanding that I was taking cool photos. This is how it all started. When I arrived in Russia I already knew how to present myself.
What magazines did you manage to work for?
I’ve shot for Flanelle Magazine, Eye Republic, and Mordant Magazine.
Are the shooting ideas mostly your own, or are there limits that you have to follow?
If it is a creative project then it is mainly my ideas. But I always endeavour to consult with the rest of the team i.e. the stylist and the makeup artist. I enquire as to what they would like to show and how they would like to express themselves. If it is a commercial shoot then of course it is more advantageous to follow a clear technical task, especially when the customer is already experienced in shooting and knows his audience and product well. We will coordinate everything from the camera angles to the final retouching. However, some customers are still quite new in this business and occasionally do not know what they want or are unable to appreciate the style. Not everyone has the courage to ask for help and advice from a photographer, although it would help them a lot.
The most memorable shoot?
I like a shoot when it is fun. Recently, for example, we filmed a story where the firecrackers did not explode and then they got tangled up in the garland. The whole team were in fits of giggles to the point of tears of laughter!
The team then asked me, “Vika, is everything ok?”
“Of course!” I replied, “Just because I’m having fun doesn’t mean I’m forgetting myself.”
As the saying goes, we do all the stupidest things with a straight face!
What do we need to learn from modern fashion?
At the moment fashion is no longer narrowly focused. It has evolved into a kaleidoscope of opinions and views. Finally, with the help of fashion, we can fully accept ourselves, without dictating what is right and what is not. This is just in time for the previous question. Fashion has become a modern miracle, because it goes beyond the norm. It allows people to see all the diversity of the world, other cultures and life ideas.
Text by K. Mironova
Photo provided by V. Koldysheva
