Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Sullivan
Hi Elena, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I discovered my passion for photography at fifteen when I received an Olympus analog camera as a birthday gift. What began as self-exploration through portraiture evolved into creative self-expression. After earning a Master’s Degree in Art from Saint Petersburg University of Culture and Art, I embarked on a professional photography journey, starting with street lifestyle and landscape photography. Over time, I transitioned into individual, family, and couple portraits, eventually launching a wedding photography business. My solo travels across Finland, Spain, and Mexico allowed me to expand my portfolio to include underwater and boudoir sessions. In 2020, I had the incredible opportunity to join Emmy award-winning TV producer Christina Cindrich on an underwater shoot, followed by an assignment with The New York Times. Now based in the Atlanta area, GA, I focus on product, food, and still-life photography, constantly exploring new creative possibilities. I also run “Online Education for Beginners and Inspired Enthusiasts in Photography,” offering articles, videos, and consultations. In my ArsVie Photo Studio, filled with natural light and an extensive collection of props, I transform ideas into visual stories that evoke emotions and resonate with viewers, always keeping my love for the craft close to my heart.
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?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, and like any creative journey, it came with its fair share of challenges. When I first started, turning my passion for photography into a professional career required a lot of courage and self-belief. After graduating with a Master’s Degree in Art, I found myself in a rapidly changing landscape as digital photography was on the rise. Deciding what to focus on was difficult, and I often felt overwhelmed by the countless possibilities.
Building a photography business in a new country like Mexico was another significant challenge. Navigating a different culture, learning new skills like WordPress, and establishing myself in a competitive market pushed me out of my comfort zone. Starting out with a small budget meant that every step forward required careful planning.
Additionally, transitioning from one photography genre to another—like moving from street lifestyle to underwater photography—wasn’t easy. It required learning new techniques and also investing in specialized equipment. The risks involved in underwater photography, such as working in unpredictable environments, added another layer of complexity.
Despite these struggles, each challenge brought immense personal and professional growth. These experiences taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and staying true to my artistic vision, no matter the obstacles.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work as a fine art photographer is deeply inspired by nature, focusing on capturing the intricate details that often go unnoticed. I specialize in using a Nikon camera with a Nikkor lenses to reveal the surprising beauty in everyday scenes, from water droplets on flowers to expansive landscapes and underwater life.
I’m most proud of how my prints offer viewers a sense of calm and connection to the natural world, serving as personal art pieces that evoke tranquility and reflection. What sets me apart is the blend of influences—from European art and architecture to the stories of ordinary people—that shape my unique artistic style. Each of my prints is more than just an image; it’s an experience that resonates with the viewer, providing a moment of peace in a chaotic world.
I also offer elegant and vibrant flying dress photoshoots in Atlanta metro area. This photoshoot is designed to break from the everyday hustle and immerse you in an exquisite feminine world where dreaming is a vital part of life. This experience serves as an allegory for all things feminine—elegant, creative, and inspiring. Through these sessions, I aim to redefine beauty standards and demonstrate that professional photoshoots are not just for celebrities and influencers but for every woman who wants to step into the spotlight and embrace her beauty with confidence. The flying dress photoshoot goes beyond a mere physical experience; it has the power to shift your mindset, challenge unrealistic beauty standards, and infuse your life with elegance and artistic flair. I’m proud to offer this transformative experience that celebrates and reveals every women true beauty.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories connected to my photography is watching my dad develop film in our small bathroom, which he had turned into a darkroom. I was fascinated by the entire process—the way he carefully handled the film and the magic of seeing images gradually emerge in the developing trays. It was a profound experience that sparked my own passion for photography and has stayed with me as a cherished part of my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://arsviephotostudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arsviephotostudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arsviephotostudio
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElenaSullivanPhotography/
- Other: https://elenaphotoart.com/
