Hi, I’m Zhenya — a Bay Area photographer, musician, and a recovering techie. Being creative, connecting with beautiful people, and making them smile brings me the most joy. I love what I do and I love sharing it with others!
WEDDINGS
I always look for what works best for each couple and what every situation calls for. It’s important to both take beautiful original photos, capturing special memories, and to create the space where the couple gets to experience their day. To me that means to be relatable, kind and fun, and to be knowledgeable and professional; to know when to take a step back and take candid photos; to be creative and experimental, and to take those classic shots that are must haves for some families; to recognize whether the couple needs a little gently guided posing, or if they just need the space to be all over each other and I step a bit further away and just take the shots. Whatever you need to get great photos and memories from your wedding — I’ll know what to do. Let’s start with a conversation.
COUPLES PORTRAITS / ENGAGEMENT
“I really don’t like taking photos!” and "This was so much fun!" — would often be the two things one of the partners would tell me before and after the session. Taking photos is just one step of the process. What's important is holding the space where the couple feels comfortable being vulnerable and engaging with each other authentically, without worrying about where to look, how to smile, or how to pose. Some go there naturally, and all I need to do is take well composed photographs. Often, though, I nudge them slightly toward that engagement — sometimes asking them to reflect on their favorite memory, other times to make up new nicknames for each other. It turns into a fun game that the couple really gets into, forgetting they are actually in a photo session. Ultimately, you'll get great photos, but I offer more than just that final product; I offer an experience.
"Think about what you would never want to change about each other."
"Say 'I love you' in a made-up language."
"Share what you admire about each other the most."
FAMILY PORTRAITS
Are we going to fantasize about turning all the mean people into puppies and kittens? Or make up a new language? Or shell the kids just do a good old staring contest? There fill be some posing, some candid shots, but all will be fun and easygoing. It’s a very different dynamic, but like in the couples sessions, the key is to make everyone comfortable, relaxed and not think about the camera.
MATERNITY
Calm and intimate photo session is ideal for celebrating your pregnancy and marking this chapter before baby arrives. We’ll pick a spot that feels right (at home or outdoors). Expect a blend of natural candids and a few timeless portraits.
