ELENA FELI
How did you start your career in photography?
I have been passionate about photography since childhood and saw it as a way of self expression. I started taking photos with a film camera at the age of 16 and developed the film and prints myself. I began my professional career in photography with small shoots and gradually evolved, gaining experience, learning from the best masters, and improving my skills.
What initially drew you to your current field, and how has your journey evolved since then?
I began my journey as a wedding and family photographer with capturing couples in love. Initially, it was weddings, then my clients started asking me to photograph their children, sometimes pregnancies, baptisms, and simply family celebrations. This way, I became not only a wedding but also a family photographer. For me, this is a very interesting direction in photography. I don’t just take photos, but I also tell family stories captured in photographs.
What attracts you to capturing family and wedding moments?
I enjoy capturing special moments in people’s lives, and family and wedding moments are among the most significant. In these shoots, I can capture love, happiness, and emotions, and create everlasting memories for families and couples.
How do you create a comfortable atmosphere for family and wedding photo shoots?
Establishing a trusting relationship with clients is a key factor in creating a comfortable atmosphere. I try to understand their preferences, discuss their expectations, and help them relax in front of the camera. I also strive to be unobtrusive and give the family or couple space for candid shots.
In your opinion, what are the essential qualities or skills needed to succeed in your industry?
In the field of wedding and family photography, a combination of empathy, creative vision, and technical expertise is particularly important. Understanding emotions and the ability to convey them through photographs that capture family moments are also key. Additionally, communication skills help establish trusting relationships with clients and accurately understand their preferences. Organizational abilities and flexibility in work are necessary to successfully coordinate shoots and respond effectively to unexpected situations. All of these skills greatly assist the photographer in their work.
What features and challenges are associated with working as a family and wedding photographer?
Working as a family and wedding photographer requires flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to different situations. The features include working with people of different ages and personalities, as well as considering weather conditions and lighting. Challenges may arise, for example, in organizing large group shots or dealing with unexpected schedule changes.
What advice can you give to families and couples preparing for a photo shoot?
It is important to be natural and be yourself in front of the camera. Don’t get nervous and strive for perfect poses, as the most genuine photos are captured when you simply enjoy the moment. I also recommend discussing your expectations with the photographer and preparing for the shoot in advance, such as choosing suitable outfits and accessories.
How do you approach photo editing and retouching?
I strive to maintain the naturalness and individuality of the photos, so my editing includes basic color correction, contrast adjustment, and saturation, as well as a light toning. Retouching is applied when necessary to remove unwanted elements or enhance the overall appearance of the photo.
Aside from your professional work, what passions or interests do you pursue?
Before I started pursuing commercial photography, I worked for many years as a teacher and psychologist in a school. I believe that my professional education and accumulated experience greatly assist me in my current work and professional growth as a photographer. I am still very passionate about psychology; I read and watch a lot on this topic.
What book, movie, or artistic work has significantly shaped your worldview or professional approach?
I really enjoy the book “Dialogues with Photography” by Paul Hill and Thomas Cooper. In this book, renowned photographers of the 20th century share their failures and successes, as well as offer advice to aspiring photographers. Additionally, I was greatly inspired by the film “The Great Gatsby” directed by Baz Luhrmann. This work filled me with aesthetics and romance, helping me see beauty in the smallest details, which I then strive to capture in my photographs. The film “The Bridges of Madison County” also played a significant role, showing the importance of emotions and spiritual connection in our lives. However, I do not limit myself to just these famous works. When I watch any movie, video, or even advertisements, I always pay attention to unique perspectives, interesting moments, play of light, and combinations of colors. It is fascinating to observe all of this and it inspires me to create new works, driving me forward and encouraging my growth and development.
What trends in wedding and family photography have you noticed recently?
Recently, there has been a trend towards more natural and informal shoots, where the emphasis is on the emotional aspect. Journalistic-style photography, where a story and mood are created, is also popular.
What projects and achievements in the field of photography are you particularly proud of?
I am proud of my projects that have been published in several magazines and blogs. I am also proud to have been a participant and ranked among the top photographers in several photo thematic contests, such, for example, as international “35awards”, where my work was recognized by experts. Additionally, I am proud of my long-term relationships with my clients who come back to me again and again for new photo sessions. This, to me, embodies trust and client satisfaction.
If you could collaborate with anyone, past or present, in your field, who would it be and why?
I have always dreamed of working as a photographer in the film industry. If given the opportunity, I would gladly work with a director on set, such as Clint Eastwood or Ridley Scott. For me, it would be an unforgettable, educational, and very inspiring experience.
Looking toward the future, what are your major goals or aspirations, both personally and professionally?
I would like to be a happy mother and wife, travel more, and not lose inspiration. Currently, I am working on one of my photo projects, and I cannot reveal its details yet, but I really hope that it will turn out to be very interesting. Afterwards, I would like to organize my own photo exhibition, and I would be happy if it could be a traveling exhibition, allowing me to present it not only in my city but also in other cities and countries.
What are your thoughts on Milan as a hub for creativity and innovation, and how do you think it compares to other major cities in your field?
For me, Milan is an amazing city that plays a significant role in the field of photography and art. One of its main distinctions is its unique aesthetics and style. Milan is known for its fashion shows, architecture, and design, which certainly influence the creative inspiration of any artist. There is a special atmosphere here, as Milan combines traditional and modern art, fostering creativity diversity in photography.
