Today we’d like to introduce you to Egor Vasilyev.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Ever since my school days, I’ve dreamed of pursuing an IT education. I decided to attend Bauman State Technical University in Moscow, which is considered one of the best in Russia, partly because both of my parents are alumni. However, halfway through my six-year program, I became fascinated with photography. When my parents learned about this, they were horrified by my desire to enter the creative field. They hoped I would reconsider and continue studying programming languages and computer networking. Despite their expectations, I was determined to pursue my passion for photography while remaining enrolled in the university.
Photography began to provide me with income a couple of years before graduation, which strengthened my belief that I couldn’t abandon my love for creating images. It was daunting to consider giving up the prospect of a predetermined career as an IT specialist with a stable income. Instead, I took a leap into freelance photography, even though my income wasn’t guaranteed, and my skills at the time couldn’t guarantee success. Over the next few years, I built my personal brand, made connections, and completed dozens of projects that I’m proud of. I have an eye for detail, technical know-how, and a sense of style.
Despite the skepticism of many people who believe photography couldn’t provide a fulfilling career for a young man and his family, I’ve proven them wrong. I make a living from photography, a profession that offers countless opportunities to capture people and places inaccessible to the average person.
So far, I’ve been shooting for over 14 years, collaborating with numerous international brands and renowned magazines such as Puma, Cosmopolitan, Estee Lauder, Glamour, Ivy Park, Men’s Health, and more.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As I mentioned, the beginning of my career was filled with numerous challenges. However, they don’t cease as I progress along the way.
And I’m absolutely sure that one of the main struggles is risk at every step. But no risk, no reward. Or, as they say in an old Russian proverb: “He who doesn’t risk never gets to drink Champagne.”
Being a freelancer in a creative profession already entails significant risk. After all, I face the reputational risks associated with every project I shoot for any client, regardless of whether they are new or regular. I take risks when deciding to invest in expensive equipment, as there’s no guarantee it will pay for itself. I also take a risk when providing cost estimates to clients for my team’s work during preproduction. Moreover, hiring someone I’ve never worked with carries its own uncertainties.
Throughout my career, I’ve had to contend with risks, much like any business owner. It’s an unavoidable aspect of the job. One that I must endeavor to minimize while acknowledging that it often leads to significant career breakthroughs. This is precisely where I find myself now. Taking a substantial risk, I obtained a US working visa, left my home country and comfort zone with my family, and invested heavily in relocating to start building a business here in the US. Yet, here I am, forging our new future.
It’s important to note one crucial aspect: as part of my own risk management strategy, I maintain savings. These savings provide me with the financial independence to weather periods with fewer projects or to take time off for vacations, illness (hello, pandemic), or even burnout (which is a risk in itself). In such situations, I can step away from work, knowing that my family and I are financially secure.
So, risk is something I deal with all the time, whether I like it or not.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My portfolio works largely in the commercial advertising and editorial space with a focus on portrait, fashion, and beauty photography. While the bulk of my work comprises studio sessions, I am equally adept and enthusiastic about capturing images in outdoor settings.
Having collaborated extensively with celebrities throughout my career, I have refined a skill set in working with high-profile individuals and efficiently achieving the desired outcomes for clients or editorial teams. My experience has provided me with invaluable insights into the nuances of working with prominent personalities, allowing me to navigate various challenges seamlessly. I understand the importance of time constraints and the need for swift yet precise execution to meet the demands of the industry.
As the art director of Interview magazine once told me, I have a knack for capturing the essence of my subjects in portraits, conveying mood, and seizing the most opportune moment.
Portraits shot for magazines are always a creative outlet for me, providing an opportunity to fully express my vision of a person as a subject within the realm of photography.
Moreover, I possess extensive experience in e-commerce photography, where I excel in showcasing products in their best light to appeal to online consumers. Whether crafting captivating portraits, showcasing the latest fashion trends, revealing the essence of beauty, or meticulously curating product imagery for e-commerce platforms, I am dedicated to delivering visually compelling and impactful photographs that resonate with audiences.
What’s next?
As a newcomer to the U.S. and an established photographer, I’m keenly aware of the importance of building a strong professional network in this dynamic and diverse market. By forging connections with fellow photographers, clients, and industry professionals, I aim to open up new avenues for collaborations, projects, and exposure.
In my quest for growth, I continually explore new styles and techniques to diversify my portfolio and attract a wider clientele. As an established photographer, I remain dedicated to learning and evolving, whether it’s mastering new techniques, keeping up with trends, or refining my business acumen. This unwavering pursuit of excellence drives my passion for photography.
Investing time and effort into establishing myself as a reputable photographer within the U.S. market is a top priority for me. I understand that success in this competitive industry requires dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. By delivering high-quality work and consistently exceeding client expectations, I aim to solidify my reputation as a trusted and sought-after photographer.
Lastly, while I’m proud of how far I’ve come, I’m also mindful of the dreams and aspirations that I’ve set as long-term goals. Whether it’s establishing my own studio, getting published in top magazines, or working on shoots for the best brands, I’m excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities that lie on the horizon. With hard work, determination, and a dash of creativity, I’m confident that I can turn these dreams into reality.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.egorv.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egor_v/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/egor.vasilyev
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/egor-vasilyev/
Image Credits
Egor Vasilyev
