1Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
My name is Vesela Hadzhiyska, and I am from Bulgaria. I have been working in advertising and marketing for over 10 years within our family businesses. My family has a long tradition in food production, with a strong commitment to preserving natural resources. Raised to respect everything around me, I find inspiration not only in food as a means of sustenance but also in nature and the elements that surround us. I have a deep love for art in all its forms.
I began photographing food professionally three years ago, and for the past year, I have been exploring and experimenting with different genres of photography. This journey has allowed me to combine my passion for art with my appreciation for the natural world, leading me to continuously seek new creative avenues and expand my artistic horizons.
2Where did you study photography?
I took a photography course in 2021 at the Photographic Center Sea Blue in Varna. The experience also encouraged me to explore my creativity and experiment with different styles and techniques, which has greatly influenced my work today.
3Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
Yes, I remember my first professional shots—they were of dairy products. These photos marked the beginning of my journey as a food photographer. I felt a mix of excitement and responsibility, knowing that I was capturing something essential to our everyday lives. The experience taught me a lot about the importance of detail, lighting, and composition, and it was a significant moment that solidified my passion for photography.
4What equipment do you use?
I use a Nikon D5600 and my smartphone for photography. The Nikon D5600 allows me to capture high-quality images with precise control over settings like exposure and focus, which is essential for professional work. My smartphone is also a versatile tool that I use for capturing spontaneous moments and experimenting with different angles and compositions. Together, they give me the flexibility to adapt to different shooting conditions and creative ideas.
5What do you hope to achieve?
By exploring and experimenting with different approaches, I aim to broaden my creative horizons and deepen my understanding of visual storytelling. My goal is to continuously evolve as a photographer and to create diverse and compelling images that resonate with different audiences.
6What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
The joy and love from my family and friends have been the most inspiring and touching compliments for me. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how my work resonates with them and brings happiness into their lives. Additionally, it’s often quite amusing to hear their guesses about what I’ve photographed, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to my creative process.
7What inspires your unique storytelling?
My unique storytelling is inspired by various sources. Sometimes, a passage from a book can spark a creative idea, while other times, it’s the diverse emotions I encounter or the colours of nature that influence my work. Occasionally, the concept comes first, and I create the images to match it. At other times, I am captivated by a fragment or a location, and the story unfolds from there.
8What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Emotion, colour, and conceptual.
9Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Every award is special, and receiving the European Photography Awards is particularly meaningful. It represents a recognition that creativity has no boundaries in terms of expression, place, or time. This distinction is a testament to my dedication and passion, affirming that my work resonates on a larger scale and inspiring me to continue exploring and expanding the limits of my artistic vision.
10Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 European Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
I submitted three photographs in three different categories, two of which received honourable mentions. The winning image, titled "Lake Shades," was taken in the afternoon at a pond with water lilies. The reflections and patterns created by the sunlight leave room for the imagination to paint its own picture. I chose to enter this project because it encapsulates my fascination with the interplay of light and nature, and how it can evoke personal interpretations and emotions.
11How has winning an award developed your career?
Winning the award has given me a significant boost in confidence to continue exploring new styles of photography. It has encouraged me to push the boundaries of my creative process and to experiment with different techniques and genres. This recognition has not only validated my work but also motivated me to pursue further artistic growth and innovation in my career.
12Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Carl Warner, Man Ray and Dora Maar.
13What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
The best advice I received was from my father. He told me, "Do what your heart and soul desire." This advice has helped me navigate challenges and stay motivated, always reminding me to prioritise what truly resonates with me on a personal and artistic level.
14What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
Be bold with your ideas and stay true to what genuinely touches your heart. Create with passion and love, and seek inspiration from all areas of life. Don't be afraid to experiment and push boundaries, as this is where you’ll discover your unique voice. Authenticity and a deep emotional connection in your work will set you apart and make your photography resonate with others. Embrace the journey with curiosity and openness, and always strive to capture what moves and inspires you.
15What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
The key to my success is communicating with the creative process through intuition. Trusting your instincts and allowing them to guide you can lead to unexpected and profound results. Embrace the journey of discovery with an open mind and heart. Stay curious, be willing to experiment, and don't be afraid to follow your inner voice.
Authenticity and passion are essential in creating work that is both meaningful and impactful. Remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and staying true to yourself will always lead you in the right direction.
16How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I maintain an open mind towards new creative challenges. By embracing curiosity and staying receptive to different perspectives and ideas, I continuously learn and grow. Engaging with diverse sources of inspiration and being open to experimenting with new techniques help me stay engaged and innovative in my work.
17Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the jury of the European Photography Awards for this prestigious recognition. Additionally, I want to extend my deepest thanks to my family, whose love and unwavering support have been fundamental to my journey. Their encouragement and belief in my work have played a crucial role in my success and continuous growth as a photographer.
