I was born in Novy Urengoy, Siberia, Russia. When I was 15 years old, I moved to Moscow, and at the age of 21 I graduated from the University of Economics. After working in an office for 8 years, I realized that I wanted to become a photographer. From 2018 to 2021, I studied at the Fondazione Studio Marangoni (School of Photography) in Florence. In my opinion, photography is a reflection of the world. I see the world and let everything pass through me. In this way, a kind of “cooperation” of me, my views, values and beliefs is obtained. My mission is to encourage viewers to think, perceive, reflect, feel, experience, react, empathize, get aesthetic pleasure, and see their feedback.
MAG42: When did you realize that fashion photography was a path you wanted to follow?
I’ve always liked fashion. Since school, I have always bought fashion magazines, looked at photos and even sewed clothes for my Barbie doll. When I studied at the school of photography in Florence, I finally decided which field of photography I would go into, first of all, I like to shoot portraits and I like stylish people. Combining the two ingredients turned out to be the perfect combination and now I am a fashion photographer.
MAG42: How would you describe your photographic style?
My photos are about color, light and minimalism. The color should be pure, as we see it. I’m also very meticulous, and everything should be perfect in the frame, even if it’s a mess.
MAG42: Where do you get your creative inspiration?
I visit different museums, walk a lot, travel, even walking down the same street every day, I pay attention to everything around me and always find something new. But the main place where I get inspiration is watching movies, most of all it’s old movies.
MAG42: What equipment and tools are vital for you to have no matter where you are photographing?
The most important thing is the camera, vision and experience. You can only have a camera and take amazing shots.
MAG42: What is your favorite project so far?
My favorite project is “I’m Different”, it’s not about fashion. I decided to bring it to life because I wanted to show the absence of differences between people, even though we are so different from each other. We all experience the same feelings, breathe the same air, eat food, love and think. But some people look at the world differently, condemning, discussing, hating others, thereby showing complete intolerance towards them. Reflecting on this, I came up with the idea to show that people who experience such “intolerance”, nevertheless, do not give up, but have great inner strength to resist this negative impact. They are not afraid that they will be judged for who they are, for their views and values, for their appearance. They have accepted themselves as the world has created them, and they are not afraid to declare it publicly. I admire these bright personalities and their inner strength!
MAG42:: Who’s work & style do you admire?
I admire the work of Helmut Newton, and of the contemporary photographers Rafael Pavarotti.
MAG42: Albina your works have been exhibited in Paris and Milan and at some major magazines. What does this mean to you?
The fact that my works have been exhibited in Paris and Milan gives me a sense of recognition. It was very nice to receive an invitation to participate, and you understand that your creativity is important not only to you and others. After all, as a photographer, it is important for me to show my thoughts through photographs and the people can see what is valuable to me.
MAG42: Recently the biggest fashion event in Italy were going on “Pitti Uomo”. What is your impression of men’s fashion today and do you personally like some styles you catch on camera?
Today’s men’s fashion has changed and I like many of them. My personal opinion is that everyone should have their own style, which can be emphasized with new trends. Since I grew up in a rather conservative country, I like the elements of a classic men’s suit. But all this in the image should be played with an interesting cut, accessories and stylish shoes. But everyone is free to wear what they like and what they feel comfortable in.
MAG42: What is the message for our readers and future photographers…
I would say that it is very important to show your own individuality and not be afraid of it. It is very important to work on yourself day after day, develop your vision of the world, read more, travel and never stop achieving your desires. And if you are a photographer, like me, then you experiment, find your own style and your own vision. The main thing is not to be afraid of anything and go into your own fear, because your development is in it.
