Today we’d like to introduce you to Irina Chernikova
Hi Irina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have a degree in literary studies. My love for books and cinema led me to photography. I enjoy creating cinematic shots, where all my subjects feel like characters from books and movies about love. My main focus is wedding and portrait photography.
I’ve been photographing since 2017, and my style has evolved over time—from posed shots to capturing movement within the frame. The best portraits are always the ones where people are living in the moment, not just posing for the camera.
My greatest passion is film photography; it has a timeless atmosphere all its own.
In the past, I photographed romantic couples in Europe. Two years ago, my wife and I immigrated to the United States, and now I mainly work in California and Las Vegas. I also enjoy traveling to different states and cities.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey in photography and becoming a photographer was challenging.
At the beginning of my journey, my wife was diagnosed with cancer, and it was challenging for me to balance my primary job with photography. But despite all the difficulties, my wife supported me in pursuing my passion and gave me the faith that everything would work out. Together, we overcame it all. Now, she works alongside me as my assistant and my muse.
Financially, it was tough—I had to work various jobs unrelated to photography to save up for my first camera and equipment. For a long time, photography didn’t bring in any income, but it was always my inspiration and passion in life. I’m grateful that I can now fully dedicate my time to my beloved craft—photography—and capture moments in the most beautiful and stunning places in California.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I photograph weddings, elopements, love stories, and engagements. I love being a documentarian in my work, capturing moments and emotions. The main beauty in my shots is that people show genuine, sincere emotions—they truly live in the moment. I always strive to create an atmosphere where, for example, if a couple comes to me for a love story session, it feels like a date for them first and foremost, not just a photoshoot. I’m simply observing and capturing their happiness in the frame.
I’m proud of participating in my first exhibition at the Wick Monet art gallery in Pittsburgh, PA, in 2023. My project told the story of a young artist from Pittsburgh who was in the process of transitioning.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with me in several ways:
1. Collaborations: If you’re a fellow photographer, creative professional, or business, I’m always open to collaborating on projects. Whether it’s a styled shoot, a creative campaign, or an artistic endeavor, I love blending talents to create something unique.
2. Referrals: If you know someone in need of a wedding or portrait photographer, referring them to me would be greatly appreciated. My work often thrives through word-of-mouth and personal recommendations.
3. Supporting My Work: Follow my social media channels, engage with my posts, and share my work with your network. Your support helps me reach more people and continue doing what I love.
Feel free to reach out if you have any ideas or opportunities for collaboration
Pricing:
- Love story, Engagement $650
- Wedding starting at $2400
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.loveislovephotographer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loveislove_photographer
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550098735223&mibextid=LQQJ4d
