I'm glad you wish to get to know me
Hello, I'm Vera Kristinova, a loving, caring, and mindful mother, a pragmatic dreamer, and someone who enjoys good chocolate, fantasy books, relaxing strolls in nature, and quiet moments. I live with my partner, our two sweet and curious (sometimes mischievous) children, and our energetic (and charismatic) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Merlin, on the outskirts of the beautiful Norwegian town of Ålesund, at the gateway to the majestic Sunnmørsalpene mountains and stunning fjords. Both my family and the surrounding landscape inspire me in my passion for lifestyle and documentary photography.
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My photography journey
My photography journey began over a decade ago with a desire to capture underwater life during snorkeling and scuba diving vacations. Frustrated by the limitations of a simple pocket camera, I transitioned to DSLR and later mirrorless cameras, which quickly became my constant companions, and photography soon grew into a lifelong passion.
After becoming a mother, I realized that lifestyle photography with a hint of documentary style was the heart of my passion and something I wanted to explore and enjoy beyond my family and personal life. So in 2022, I founded ABRAKADABRA Photodesign.
To further enhance my skills as a lifestyle photographer, I completed a series of professional and advanced courses (the core ones listed below) focused on natural light, and capturing authentic environments and moments.
Michelle McKay - Telling Stories & Making Meaning
Elena S. Blair - The Lifestyle Approach to Family Photography
Elena S. Blair - Family Posing Made Easy incl. Behind the Scenes
Elena S. Blair - Lifestyle Newborn Photography Made Easy 2.0
Katelyn James Photography Education – Posing course
Katelyn James Photography Education – Light & Location course
Katelyn James Photography Education – Off-camera flash course
Katelyn James Photography Education – Family photography course
Fotograf Bjørn Joachimsen – Photoshop & Lightroom courses
Fotofagskolen Trondheim – Advanced photocourse
I’m currently using two Canon R6 with Canon EF lenses (70–200 mm/F2.8, 18–200 mm/F2.8, 50 mm/F1.4). I’m a natural light photographer, but if the light is insufficient, I will use my Godox on- or off-camera flash system.
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Inside my photography head
With a camera in hand, my inner artist comes alive - I’m eager, devoted, and determined. I’ll climb trees, crawl through mud, and pull off silly stunts (much to the delight of children) just to capture the right moment from the perfect angle. I shoot in RAW and edit all my photos using professional software and calibrated screens. Once I sit down to edit, the perfectionist in me takes over. I obsess over every detail, create my own presets, and often work late into the night (because I’m more of a night owl than an early bird) and I won’t stop until I’m truly satisfied.
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I hope you will find working with me entertaining, inspiring, and relaxing. My goal is to capture your true self in genuine lifestyle photographs that you will cherish and keep as a treasure for years to come.
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Have a magical day! :)
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Vera Kristinova
Your dedicated lifestyle photographer
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