About Me
The Woman Behind the Lens
Photographer. Mother. Immigrant. Storyteller.
Hi, I'm Olena
I was born in Ukraine and moved to the Bay Area with my family, carrying with me a deep love for storytelling, beauty in everyday moments, and the belief that photographs should make you feel something.
My style is cinematic and emotional — I chase golden-hour light, real laughter, and the quiet in-between moments that most people forget to notice. I believe the best photographs aren't the perfectly posed ones. They're the ones where you can almost hear the laughter, feel the warmth, and remember exactly how that moment made you feel.
When I'm not behind the camera, you'll find me baking sourdough bread (it's become a real passion), walking our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lisa through Lafayette trails with my daughter Kira, or journaling over coffee about life, motherhood, and the beautiful mess of building a new home in a new country.
I'm also training to become an ICF-certified life coach, because I believe deeply in the power of self-reflection, personal growth, and helping people see themselves more clearly — whether through a photograph or a conversation.
My Approach
What Makes My Sessions Different
Beautiful Light, Anywhere
Golden hour on the beach, soft window light at home, or a fully controlled studio setup with professional lighting and reflectors. I adapt to the setting to create the most beautiful result.
Real Emotions
I don’t ask you to say cheese. I create space for genuine connection — playful prompts, gentle guidance, and the freedom to be yourselves.
Cinematic & Timeless
Shot on Canon EOS R and Leica — warm tones, rich shadows, and an editorial eye. My editing style creates images that feel like stills from a beautiful film.
My Gear
I shoot primarily on a Canon EOS Rwith the legendary 50mm f/1.2L — the lens many photographers dream about — and a 24–105mm L-series zoom, paired with a Leica Q2 for its beautiful rendering and a Leica M6 for film work. For indoor sessions I bring professional lighting and reflectors to shape the light exactly how I want it.