In the world of fashion photography, Andrey Heimonen has mastered the art of capturing emotion, depth, and raw beauty in every frame. Known for his striking visual storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Andrey’s work transcends the superficiality often associated with fashion, focusing instead on the intimate connection between subject and image.
In his recent collaboration with Mila Milanovich on the editorial “Closeness”, Andrey’s lens explores the delicate interplay of vulnerability and strength, bringing Mila’s creative vision to life in a way that resonates deeply with the viewer.
In this exclusive interview for FashionMag42, Andrey shares insights into his creative process, the challenges and joys of working in collaboration with Mila, and his thoughts on the future of fashion photography. Join us as we dive into the mind of a photographer who continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to capture the essence of style.
MAG42:“Closeness” is such an emotionally charged editorial. From a photographer’s perspective, what was the core feeling or narrative you wanted to capture through your lens?
ANDREY: For me, „Closeness“ is, above all, about trust—as well as sincerity and respect. I tried to convey the feeling of an internal dialogue between two worlds: the external image and deep vulnerability. I wanted to capture that fleeting moment when the model is no longer posing, but simply existing—real, unguarded, strong, and at the same time, fragile.
FM42: How did you and Mila collaborate to create a seamless visual experience for this editorial? Can you walk us through the process of blending her styling vision with your photography?
ANDREY: Working with Mila is always a synergy. The visual concepts are born in advance—thanks to her refined taste and strong sense of style. Together, we plan not only the overall visual language of the shoot, but also the details: how the light will work, what kind of background will support the mood, how posture and gesture can evoke a specific emotion.
With Mila, we understand each other without needing many words—it’s like we have our own creative portal. Working as a team feels natural and inspiring, and each shoot brings not just results, but genuine joy. Mila is more than a stylist—she creates atmosphere. She discovers incredible models—not only beautiful and professional, but truly alive and human. And that’s when the magic begins: together, we suggest how best to bring out the character, how to move, smile—or, sometimes, how to hold stillness.
MAG42:The lighting and composition in “Closeness” seem to play such a vital role in setting the tone. How did you approach the lighting setup, and what kind of mood were you aiming for in each shot?
ANDREY: Light and composition are key tools in crafting the emotional code of a series.
In „Closeness“, I was aiming for a sense of intimacy, soft focus, and inner stillness. The lighting was designed to highlight the texture of skin, the natural flow of movement, the fragility of the moment. I used soft, diffused light that models volume without weighing down the image—leaving space for it to breathe. In terms of composition, I focused on a balance between form and spontaneity. It wasn’t about the “perfect shot” but about emotional resonance. In some scenes, we deliberately left the frame a little “raw”—to preserve that unpredictable liveliness. Working with looks is a story in itself: thanks to Mila, each outfit was meticulously curated and stylistically precise.
Costumes and textures played in harmony with background and light, creating visual unity. I wasn’t simply “photographing the outfit,” but integrating clothing into the emotional structure of the image. The models are true co-creators. Together, we search for the point where a pose becomes a natural extension of inner feeling. The result goes beyond style—it conveys mood and honest presence.
MAG42: There’s a beautiful contrast of vulnerability and strength in the shots. Was there a specific moment or feeling you wanted to evoke from the models while capturing those frames?
ANDREY: I don’t focus on the contrast between strength and vulnerability—for me, it’s more important to find an inner harmony within the frame. I gravitate toward images with a touch of melancholy—perhaps even with an element of absurdity. I aim for a sense of detachment, where the model seems to step outside of reality—slightly ghost like, natural, free from convention and self-consciousness.
Creating an atmosphere of trust and ease is crucial. Sometimes, it’s just about talking, relaxing, having a glass of champagne. That may not sound like a “shooting technique,” but this kind of unforced environment is what allows someone to open up, to let go of control, to truly forget the camera is there.
My favourite images are the ones where a person surprises themselves. Not the way they’re used to seeing themselves in the mirror—but someone new, sincere, real. That’s the magic of photography: not just to capture, but to reveal and preserve a moment of inner transformation.
MAG42: How did the location and environment influence your creative decisions in this editorial? Were there any unexpected challenges or happy accidents that shaped the final outcome?
ANDREY: Of course, location plays an important role—whether it’s nature, a studio, an urban landscape, or an intimate interior. But for me, it’s not so much the place itself that matters, but the energy it can amplify or reveal. Lately, I’ve been drawn to a semi-documentary style—where the camera catches moments from friends’ lives, private meetings, party atmospheres. That’s where true sincerity is born—a bit rebellious, a bit philosophical, and completely alive.
In such cases, the location isn’t a backdrop—it’s a co-author. You don’t adapt to it, you harmonise with it, adding your own perspective. Unexpected moments often turn out to be the most valuable. The key is to stay open, trust spontaneity, and not be afraid to step beyond the original plan.
MAG42: As a photographer, how do you approach working with a team? Was there a particular moment during the shoot where you felt everything clicked perfectly with Mila and the entire team?
ANDREY: For me, working with a team rests on three things: organisation, punctuality, and trust. When everyone knows their responsibilities and is fully prepared, the shoot flows with precision and ease. That’s exactly how it was with Mila and the whole team—complete understanding, a productive rhythm, and joy in the process.
MAG42: Fashion editorials often have a fleeting moment of inspiration that guides the direction of the shoot. Was there a single image, idea, or concept that sparked the visual identity of “Closeness”?
We’re not chasing trends—we’re more drawn to a style that lives beyond time.
„Closeness“ wasn’t born from a single idea or reference image. It was more of a process—organic, alive. Everything starts with visuals, colour, texture, the feel of fabric and mood. From that, atmosphere emerges, then rhythm, then story, tone, and title.
We love combining the unexpected: trend and classic, luxury and simplicity, absurdity and sophistication. Sometimes the shoot evolves into something like a performance—with a mood that can’t be planned in advance.
„Closeness“ is not about the trend. It’s about capturing a moment that stays with you longer than just a season.
MAG42: Looking at the final images from “Closeness”, is there a particular photograph that stands out to you the most—one that really captures the essence of the editorial?
ANDREY: Yes, there are a few shots where I feel the essence of „Closeness“ comes through most clearly.
These are the moments where subtle chemistry arises between the models—or, conversely, when each exists separately, but in perfect internal harmony. In your experience, how do you balance technical skill with creative instinct when shooting an editorial? Do you find that one is more important than the other, or do they always work hand in hand?
Technical preparation is essential, but for me, the most important thing is creative intuition.
The idea behind the shot, its mood, its ambiguity—that’s what makes the viewer pause and reflect. Technique helps express the thought, but without feeling, impulse, spontaneity—it becomes empty. I always strive for images that not only meet technical standards but truly speak—softly, deeply, and honestly.
