Her journey with photography started when she was just seven, with a simple point-and-shoot gifted by her aunt. Decades later, she picked up another vintage camera and rediscovered that same thrill—this time with no intention of putting it down. Drawn to both the design of classic cars and the vibrant communities that surround them, she captures more than machines: she documents the people, stories, and fleeting moments that make these gatherings special. Inspired by the bold spirit of street and documentary photography, her work is both thoughtful and full of energy, revealing the beauty in details we might otherwise miss.
Age (or age range): 36
Where you live and/or where are you from? Los Angeles, CA, originally from Ukraine
What is your earliest memory with a camera?
When I was about 7 my aunt had gifted me a super simple film point and shoot. This is the first time I’ve experienced the thrill of picking up the film, savoring every frame in a summer camp, picking which frames are worth printing and writing their numbers on an envelope. That’s not the story of my origin though, haha. Almost 30 years later (like every millenial) I wanted to feel something and got another vintage point and shoot from ebay and haven't put the camera down since!
What drew you to photographing cars?
While I adore cars – they are beautiful pieces of art, technology, and a snapshot of an era – I find even greater joy in observing the people who gather around them: fathers passing on their love for motorsport to their children, elderly gentlemen proudly wearing their racing suits, and car enthusiasts that can’t stop sharing facts about every vehicle!
Did you learn photography through formal education or on your own? If you studied it academically, was it worth it and what was the most valuable thing you took away from it? If you’re self-taught, what has been your biggest challenge in the process?
I don’t have a formal photography education, but I’ve been filling that gap by taking street photography classes or attending critique events. These days, we have all the technical information at our fingertips - whether it’s learning how to use your camera or how to develop film. The real challenge is not letting social media and its algorithms shape your eye. Try to stay curious, learn the basics, study the masters, and find someone to learn from. Once you understand the theory, you see your own work differently
Is there a photographer, artist or genre that influences your photography and why?
I’m most inspired by traditional street and documentary photography - bold, contrasty images shot with a wide angle. I love the idea of someone looking at a photo and thinking, ‘How on earth could all of this be happening at the same time? What are the chances of someone seeing it from this exact angle”’.
It’s a long path from shy, observational shots toward more participatory frames and then toward those haiku-like layers everyone dreams about. I’m not there yet, but that’s the direction I’m working toward
Are you a big car enthusiast or do you just enjoy shooting them?
I’m not a total motorhead, but I’m no stranger to car events, track visits, or the occasional extreme driving lesson. I might not know every spec, but I definitely appreciate the energy, design, and culture around cars - especially when I get to capture them through the lens!
What’s your go-to film camera for shooting and what would be your dream film camera to shoot with?
I've tried many film cameras, selling some and seeing others break down for parts. But once I got an Olympus OM-2n, it became my favorite. I love its small body and excellent Zuiko lenses. I even own two, one in silver and one in black. For a dream camera, I wouldn't mind a Leica M6!
Has film photography changed the way you see the world or appreciate everyday details?
Oh absolutely. I love the slow pace, no distractions, and mindfulness of the experience. Naturally film requires more thought and pre-visualization, and since there are so many dimensions where things can go wrong good frames are so much more rewarding!
How has your approach to photography evolved since you first started shooting film? (maybe skip)
My photography journey actually started with film - and that still influences the way I shoot. Film taught me to master my camera, seek the light, and use the viewfinder to cut out distractions. Now I incorporate more and more digital, but I try to keep that same slow, intentional pace. Helps me avoid reviewing 800 nearly identical shots later 😉
What challenges have you faced shooting on film?
Every new film stock comes with a bit of trial and error. And while it’s tempting to try every roll on the market (we’ve all been there, haha) and every development kit, I’ve learned it’s better to find a few you trust and really get to know them. That way, when the moment shows up, your camera, film or process won’t betray you.
Which car have you been waiting to shoot and have yet to encounter?
No specific car but I dream of coming back to the Car Week in Monterey! It’s such an incredible event in a stunning place - photographer’s heaven!
Have you ever completely messed up a roll? What happened and what did you learn from it?
Haha yes! With fully mechanical cameras I learned to always confirm the take-up by watching the rewind knob spin. I have once encountered a vibrant festival close to Pershing square in downtown LA, and shot a roll in a matter of minutes! Imagine my disappointment when it turned out blank!
What’s the best advice you’ve received about photography — and who gave it to you?
The best advice I ever received was honest feedback. There was a point when I let social media dictate what I shot - and it showed. Colorful pictures that didn't say much. That push made me take a step back, start learning more intentionally, and figure out the direction I actually wanted to grow in.
If you could shoot only one film stock for the rest of your life, which one would it be?
Something contrasty and relatable! Fujifilm 400 or Cinestill BWXX
What do you hope to transmit with your photographs?
Like everyone else - fleeting street moments, chance connections with strangers, small stories that say something about this chaotic time we live in.
Is there anything that you'd like to promote? I.e. Your business website and what you do, other social channels, or projects you wanna promote?
Not really, follow my instagram!
