Alena Saz of Downtown LA on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Alena Saz shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Alena, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding a lot of joy in creating art and exploring mediums beyond digital photography. It’s been refreshing to step away from the screen and experiment with different forms of expression, whether that’s through painting, mixed media, or writing. I’m also spending more time outdoors — being in nature not only grounds me but also sparks so much of my inspiration. That balance between creative exploration and connecting with the natural world has been really fulfilling.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Alena Saz, I’m a visual storyteller and photographer drawn to capturing beauty in its most natural and timeless form. My photography has always been about more than an image – it’s more about evoking a feeling and an emotion. Alongside my work behind the lens, I’ve recently been exploring painting and working with textures, experimenting with materials and surfaces to bring a tactile dimension to my creative expression. I’ve also been drawn to candle making, which has become another way for me to shape atmosphere and tell stories through light, texture, and scent. All of these practices feel like extensions of one another – one through vision, one through touch, one through presence — and together they allow me to create experiences that are intimate, soulful, and deeply personal.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve always had a strong creative vision, but for a long time, I didn’t feel brave enough to claim myself as an Artist. I started out as a model, inhaling everything about fashion and style; then I worked in advertising, which taught me a lot about storytelling and visual impact – but I kept comparing myself to others and wondering if my voice was enough.
In the years before I claimed my own artistic path, I was quietly exploring, experimenting, and figuring out what felt true to me. Over time, I realized that my creativity was mine to own, and now I’m finally letting it lead the way!

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to listen more closely to her intuition and trust the higher guidance around her. To accept her uniqueness without comparing herself to anyone else. To remember that the magic has always been within her, and that she will always have support – from the Universe, from within herself, and from the people who love her. With an open heart and belief, she will learn to manifest all the best things in her life. Everything she dreams of is already here!

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies is that success and wealth only come from certain practical paths like tech, finance, or real estate, and that pursuing an artistic career is somehow risky and unlikely to lead to “real” success. This is a limiting belief that keeps so many talented artists from following their dreams or shooting for the stars.

The truth is that creativity, dedication, and vision are already SUCCESS in their own way, and being on your own path as an artist is just as valid, valuable, and rewarding as any conventional career.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If immortality were real, what would you build?
I actually believe immortality is real, especially if we look at it through the lens of energy. Everything, including ourselves, is energy, and energy is perpetual and it never truly disappears.

Knowing this, I focus on building things that create lasting impact – art, experiences, and connections that continue to resonate, touching hearts and inspiring others long beyond our physical presence.

Contact Info:

• Website: alenasaz.com portalcandle.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alena_saz
• Other: https://models.com/people/alena-sazonova

Image Credits
Photo by Elena Kulikova