Interview with Katrine Moite | Multiple Award-Winning Photographer

Yes, I’m originally from Ukraine, but now I capture life through my lens in the heart of New York City, running my own studio in Manhattan. My photography journey didn’t start with much knowledge or experience. I bought my first camera after moving to the U.S. and began with just that—a camera, two lenses, and a few free photo shoots. One of my neighbors kindly let me photograph her and her baby, and that’s how it all began. I started with weddings, family photos, love stories, sports, portraits, and events, slowly carving out my style.

Over time, I delved into various areas, from maternity photography to food photography and documentary work. During the COVID pandemic, I had the chance to reflect on where I wanted to go, which led me to open my first studio in Midtown Manhattan. It wasn’t easy, as I had long months without studio clients, but every shoot, whether outdoors or in restaurants, helped grow my portfolio. Now, I’m in my third studio, still driven by the same passion and hunger for more.

I work across different genres, but when it comes to maternity photography, my style focuses on simplicity and minimalism. I believe in celebrating the beauty and sensuality of women, especially during pregnancy. For me, it’s not just about capturing moments—it’s about empowering women to feel beautiful and confident during this transformative period of their lives.

I don’t use elaborate props or setups. The essence of my work is about the mother-to-be and the miracle of life she is carrying, creating timeless images that reflect the purity of her journey. My style revolves around intimate, emotional shots that freeze the anticipation, the joy, and the connection between the woman and her child.

For me, the most memorable shoots aren’t necessarily about specific events, but rather the connection I build with my clients. I’ve been fortunate to experience several sessions where the energy between us transforms the shoot into something much deeper—a celebration of self-discovery.

There’s something truly special when I witness the moment a woman realizes her beauty and strength, especially during pregnancy. The magic happens when the camera clicks fade into the background, and the session becomes about empowerment and self-love. Those are the moments that really stick with me.

In my maternity photography, I’m particularly drawn to using backlighting, which creates beautiful silhouettes and emphasizes the shapes and forms of the mother and her journey. This type of lighting allows me to bring out a lot of shadows, which not only highlight the natural curves but also add depth to the emotions captured in the moment. The shadows help focus attention on the subject, creating an intimate and raw atmosphere.

I’m a big believer in minimalism. It’s not about filling the frame with props or distractions—it’s about focusing on the connection between the mother and her baby, and sometimes between the mother and her partner. Often, half of the scene may be shrouded in shadow, but that’s intentional. It reveals more truth, more emotion, and creates a sense of mystery and anticipation. It’s the kind of lighting that draws the viewer’s attention to the essence of the moment, making the image timeless and full of emotion.

Creating a safe and comfortable space is key to my process. I always take time to build a rapport with my clients before we start shooting, ensuring they feel relaxed and understood. Maternity photography is very personal, so I guide them gently through the session, helping them embrace their beauty and strength.

I also listen closely to their needs and preferences, making sure the shoot reflects their unique journey. It’s about capturing their story in a way that feels true to them.

Maternity photography is more than just capturing moments; it's about helping women reconnect with their bodies during a period of significant change. Pregnancy is a time when women can feel vulnerable about their appearance, so having images that celebrate their beauty and strength can have a huge impact on their self-esteem.

Through these photos, women are able to see themselves in a new light, feeling empowered and proud of their bodies as they grow life. The feedback they receive, whether from the photographer or on social media, reinforces their self-image and makes them feel more confident.

Absolutely. Maternity photography can be incredibly therapeutic. It gives women the opportunity to embrace their bodies during a time of constant change. Being able to see yourself through someone else’s eyes, especially through art, can shift your perception of your own body.

It allows women to appreciate their strength, resilience, sexuality and beauty in a way that they might not have seen before. It’s a chance to reconnect with themselves and their bodies on a deeper level, and that’s powerful.

Yes, I’ve worked on a documentary called "I Don’t Have My Home Anymore." This project was deeply personal to me as it tells the stories of Ukrainian women who had to leave everything behind and start new lives in the U.S. because of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The documentary includes interviews, photos, and a film that captures their resilience in the face of such loss.

It’s not just about telling their stories—it’s about raising awareness and amplifying their voices. My goal was to shine a light on the human toll of the conflict, emphasizing the emotional struggles these women endure as they rebuild their lives far from home. You can find more details about the project on the website here.

Creating an environment where these women felt safe enough to share their deeply personal stories went beyond planning. It required tapping into the shared emotions that unite us as Ukrainians. There’s an unspoken bond between us, and that connection played a key role in making them feel understood.

As women, we also share an unspoken language—a deep sensitivity that transcends words. During our interviews, it wasn’t just about asking questions. It was about understanding and empathizing on a profound level.

Sometimes it was a glance or a simple nod that spoke volumes. The connection we shared wasn’t just professional—it was personal. This profound unity, both as Ukrainians and as women, turned our conversations into something more than just interviews.

"Unified Strength" is a photography series that celebrates the beauty, strength, and diversity of pregnancy. The series features two expectant mothers, and through intimate poses and rich contrasts, it explores the shared and unique experiences of bringing new life into the world.

The golden frame in the images symbolizes the bond between their journeys, while the dark, textured background emphasizes the serenity and power of motherhood. Despite their different backgrounds, these women are united in the universal experience of pregnancy.

The series speaks to the resilience and fortitude required to nurture new life, highlighting the beauty and strength inherent in every mother.