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Creator Spotlight: "mariiaboiko" on the Art of Capturing Authentic Emotion

  • Writer: Info @ 123RF
    Info @ 123RF
  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read

Hey there, fellow creatives! Ever wonder how some photographers just nail those genuine, heartfelt moments? You know, the kind that make you stop scrolling and actually feel something? Well, you're in for a treat because today, we're diving deep with one of 123RF.com's incredible contributing photographers, Mariia AKA: "mariiaboiko", to uncover their secrets to capturing authentic emotion.


Woman in a straw hat and blue shirt holding flowers in a vibrant garden. Sunny day with colorful blossoms surrounding her.

Forget those stiff, posed shots. We're talking about the real deal here – the laughter, the tears, the quiet moments that tell a whole story without saying a word. Maria is a master at this, and we're so stoked to share their insights with you.


A couple embraces in a sunlit field at sunset. The man wears a denim jacket, woman in beige. Warm, romantic atmosphere. 123RF text visible.

First things first, Mariia believes it all starts with connection. "You've got to build a rapport with your subjects," they'll tell you. "It's not just about pointing and shooting; it's about making them feel comfortable enough to be themselves." That means chatting, cracking a few jokes, and genuinely being interested in their story. When people feel seen and heard, that's when the magic happens.


A couple sits on a dock, fishing in a serene lake under a bright sky. Lush greenery surrounds them. One points, both wear sunglasses.

Next up, it's all about observation. Mariia has this incredible knack for spotting those fleeting, unscripted moments. "Sometimes the best shots happen when you're not even looking for them," they explain. "It's about being present and ready to capture the unexpected – a sideways glance, a shared smile, a moment of quiet reflection." You can totally do this too! Just keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready.


Woman in white dress and straw hat holds sunflowers, gazing at a sunflower field during sunset. Warm colors create a serene mood.

And let's talk about light, because, seriously, it's a game-changer. Mariia is a pro at using natural light to enhance emotion. "Soft, diffused light can create such a dreamy, intimate feel," they share. "But don't be afraid to play with shadows too; they can add so much drama and depth." It's like painting with light, and when you get it right, chef's kiss!


Woman in a field holds vibrant red flowers. She wears a khaki jacket and white shirt. Blue sky and more flowers visible in the background.

When it comes to composition, Mariia" keeps it real. "Don't overthink it," they advise. "Sometimes the most powerful images are the simplest. Focus on what you want to convey and eliminate distractions." They're all about letting the emotion take center stage, and honestly, we're here for it.


Woman in a blue top and pink shorts jogging on a rocky beach with cliffs in the background. Ocean waves and a clear sky set a serene mood.

Finally, Mariia emphasizes the importance of post-processing that enhances, not overwhelms. "You want your edits to support the emotion of the image, not distract from it," they say. "Think subtle color grading, gentle adjustments to contrast, and keeping things natural." It's about finessing, not faking.


Woman in a straw hat and sunglasses smiles by a blue sea, with islands in the background. She's wearing a backpack, creating a relaxed vibe.

So, there you have it! A peek into the mind of a true artist who's all about capturing genuine moments. Mariia's work reminds us that photography isn't just about pretty pictures; it's about telling stories, evoking feelings, and connecting with the human experience.


Ready to unleash your ideas? We have got a whole gallery of their stunning, authentic work for you to explore on 123RF. Get inspired, grab your camera, and go capture some real emotion!



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