From Pandemic Escape to Passion: Lucie Nermutová’s Photographic Journey

I did not study photography formally as a degree, but I pursued my passion through various photography courses with well-known Czech photographers. These courses helped me deepen my understanding of the craft and allowed me to develop my own style. The hands-on experience and learning from professionals in the field played a crucial role in shaping my photography journey.

I do remember my first shot—it was taken during a simple walk in nature. I decided to photograph a sunset, and the soft, golden light spilling over the landscape made me realize the power of photography to capture emotions and moments. Even though I didn’t know much about technical settings back then, the experience made me fall in love with the process. It sparked my journey into photography, as I saw how a single image could hold such a deep connection to the world around me.

Nikon Z8, Nikon D7500 and Nikkor 135 mm Plena lens.

My goal is simple—to capture the beauty and emotions of the world around us, one photo at a time. I hope to create memories that resonate with people, allowing them to relive special moments and connect with their own stories. Through my work, I want to bring a little more beauty and meaning into the lives of those who see it. It’s not about recognition, but about creating something genuine that people can treasure.

The compliment that touched me the most was when a client told me that my photos made them see the beauty in moments they had previously overlooked. They said that my work didn’t just capture what was in front of the lens, but it revealed something deeper—something emotional and meaningful that they hadn’t seen before.

That kind of feedback means so much to me because it shows that my photography can connect with people on a deeper level and help them appreciate the beauty in everyday life. It’s a reminder of why I do what I do: to evoke feelings and create lasting memories.

What inspires my unique storytelling is the connection I find between emotions and the world around us. I believe every moment, no matter how small, holds a story waiting to be discovered. Whether it's the bond between a person and their pet, the serenity of nature, or the quiet strength in a fleeting glance, these stories are what drive my work.

I draw inspiration from the beauty and emotions present in everyday life, and I aim to reflect that in my photography. My goal is to reveal the extraordinary in the ordinary, capturing moments that resonate on a personal level with those who view them.

Receiving the silver award at the New York Photography Awards is truly an honor, and it means a lot to me. It’s not just recognition of my work, but also a reflection of the journey I’ve taken in photography. While this award is a wonderful milestone, I see it as a reminder of the passion and dedication that go into capturing meaningful moments.

For me and my team, this distinction is not only about celebrating our accomplishments but also about inspiring us to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new perspectives, and evolving as artists. It’s a humbling experience, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my vision through photography.

I submitted two separate series of fine art portraits to the New York Photography Awards: one featuring dogs/horses and the other focusing on people. The dog/horse portraits aim to capture the unique personalities and emotional depth of these incredible animals, highlighting the bond between them and the world around them.

In the people category, my work focuses on capturing intimate, emotional moments that reveal the depth of human connection. Both projects reflect my belief that photography has the power to tell deeply personal stories.

Winning this award hasn't yet directly impacted my career, but it is a meaningful recognition of my work and the effort I've put into my photography.

Michael Hurník, Veronika Shandor, and Nanuq Photography.

The best piece of advice I received when starting out came from a mentor who told me, "Focus on the emotion, not just the technique." This helped me realize that photography is not just about mastering the camera settings, but about capturing the feelings and stories behind the image. It's a lesson that continues to guide my work today, reminding me to connect with my subjects and convey something meaningful through every shot.

My advice for anyone wanting to become a photographer today is to focus on developing your own unique style and perspective. Don’t just follow the latest trends, but instead take the time to experiment, explore different genres, and find what truly inspires you. Understanding the technical aspects of photography is important, but it’s the storytelling and emotion that make an image truly powerful.

Build a strong portfolio, seek feedback from others, and don't be afraid to fail—it’s all part of the learning process. Collaborating with other photographers and creatives can also help you grow and offer fresh opportunities.

Most importantly, be patient and persistent. Photography is a journey, not a race. Keep capturing what moves you and let your passion drive you forward.

My key to success is staying true to my passion and never losing sight of the emotions I want to capture through my work. Consistency, patience, and continuous learning are crucial to growth in photography.

My parting words of wisdom: Trust your vision, embrace challenges, and keep pushing your creative boundaries. Success is a journey, not a destination.

I stay receptive to new information by staying curious and open-minded. I make it a point to regularly explore different sources, attend workshops, and connect with other creatives. This helps me stay inspired and always learning, which is essential for growth.