ALISA TANTSYREVA
With a camera in hand and emotion as her guide, Alisa Tantsyreva captures the beauty of real moments — from the laughter and chaos of family life to the quiet tenderness of love. What began as a fascination with wedding photography has evolved into a heartfelt creative journey shaped by motherhood, courage, and authenticity. In this interview, she reflects on her artistic evolution, cultural roots, and the power of preserving life’s fleeting emotions through her lens.
What first sparked your interest in your creative field?
I first became interested in photography through weddings — especially around the time of my own wedding. It was such a beautiful and emotional experience that I wanted to explore it more deeply with my camera. Later, after my daughter was born, I began focusing on family photography. Motherhood opened my eyes to the importance of preserving everyday love and connection, and that became the heart of my creative journey.
How do you relax and unwind from the pressures of your work?
The best way for me to recharge is to spend time with my family and travel together. Discovering new places, enjoying nature, and simply resting in beautiful surroundings always brings me peace. I also love cooking — creating dishes I’ve never made before, experimenting with new recipes, and making food that feels both delicious and beautiful. Those simple joys keep me inspired and balanced.
How has your creative process evolved throughout your career?
In the beginning, especially with family photography, I thought people mainly wanted pictures they could hang on the wall — posed photos where everyone looks at the camera. But when I became a mother myself, everything changed. Of course, my sessions were always filled with laughter and joy, but not in the way they are now. Today I don’t try to make children sit still. Instead, I capture the real moments as they happen. If a child cries, I photograph the tears — and then the laughter that follows. That authenticity has become the heart of my work.
As a child, what did you aspire to become, and how does it compare to where you are now?
I remember when I was a schoolgirl in Russia, it was popular to exchange little questionnaires with friends and fill them out. One of the questions was always, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” While most people wrote typical professions, I wrote, “I want to be rich and famous.” Deep down, I always knew I wanted to bring something into this world and leave a mark. Of course, I may not leave a legacy like Shakespeare, Pushkin, or a president, but I do leave a mark in the lives of every family I photograph — and in the memories passed down to their children. That makes me very happy, because my childhood dream of leaving a trace in this world is already coming true. And yes, I still hope that one day I’ll become rich and famous too.
Which project in your career do you feel has had the most impact, and why?
One project that I’ve already begun working on is about bringing childhood dreams to life. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the dreams of the parents or of their children — the magic is in making them real. For example, imagine a giant paper boat. Many of us once dreamed of folding little paper ships and sailing away as the captain. Or flying in a paper airplane. I take those simple dreams and turn them into larger-than-life versions.
Another idea I’m excited about is creating a fairytale scene — like a princess guarded by a dragon who is rescued by her prince, complete with a cardboard castle and paper crown. Projects like these are so meaningful to me, because they allow families to step into their imagination together, and those memories become something truly unforgettable.
How does your cultural background influence your personal and professional life?
Growing up in Russia, I was surrounded by traditional family values — gathering around the kitchen table for tea, supporting each other, and sharing every meal together. My childhood was filled with joy and imagination. We didn’t have much money, so we often created our own toys, wrote our own stories, and invented games. That experience gave me a powerful imagination and shaped the way I see creativity today.
Culturally, Russians are also very direct and sincere. We don’t do “small talk” the same way — if we ask how you are, we truly want to know. And if we give a compliment, it comes straight from the heart. That honesty has carried into my work: I approach my clients with the same authenticity, always aiming to capture their real emotions and genuine moments.
Can you describe a milestone in your career that was particularly meaningful to you?
One of the most meaningful milestones for me was when my work started being published in international magazines. For someone who began with a small studio in Russia, it felt like confirmation that I was on the right path and that my photography could touch people far beyond my own country.
At the same time, another important milestone has been the journey of starting over again and again. In Russia we moved between several cities, later we lived in Vietnam, and now we’ve begun a new chapter in the United States. Each time we arrived somewhere new, no one knew us, and we had to build everything from the ground up. And each time, it became easier and more successful. I’m proud that we’ve had the courage to take those steps, because every move opened new horizons, expanded our circle, and gave me fresh inspiration for my work.
Outside of work, what is a hobby or activity you enjoy that might surprise people?
Not many people know this, but I love baking sourdough bread. The process reminds me of photography: it takes patience, attention, and love for small details. It’s also my way of caring for my family.
Another thing I’ve always dreamed of is playing the guitar. Years ago I could play about ten songs, but now I’ve forgotten them all. My guitar has been sitting at home for almost a year, waiting for me to pick it up again. I keep telling myself I’ll start — maybe with simple ballads — and one day I will.
How have you adapted to changes in your industry over the years?
Photography today is moving more and more toward real reportage — capturing genuine emotions and authentic moments. Very soon, artificial intelligence will be able to create flawless posed images, but what it will never be able to replace is the human ability to catch a fleeting feeling, a true connection, a piece of real life. That’s why I focus on emotions and authenticity in my work. As the industry evolves, people are also starting to realize what truly matters — not perfect poses, but the memories and feelings that remain.
Is there a book or movie that has significantly influenced you?
For books, without a doubt it’s Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling. The magic of that world captured my imagination, and as a child I always dreamed of being a magician myself. Today, many of my clients call me a magician in their reviews, saying, “Alisa, you create magic.” In a way, maybe that childhood dream really did come true.
Another favorite is The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov. I first read it in school, and it has stayed with me ever since. The blend of fantasy, philosophy, and questions about truth and morality made a deep impression on me as a teenager and still inspires me today.
As for movies, one that left a lasting mark on me is What Dreams May Come. It’s a story about true love and real feelings, and it reminds me that life itself is both fragile and beautiful.
What piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
My advice is simple: don’t chase trends, chase truth. Technical skills and knowledge of light are important, but the heart of photography is people. Learn to connect, to listen, to see the beauty in imperfection. Start with what you truly love — if you don’t enjoy what you’re shooting, it will never inspire others.
Do you have a personal philosophy or mantra that guides your life and work decisions?
Yes, I do. My mantra is: “Everything that happens, happens for the best.” This belief has guided me throughout my life. Even when something painful or difficult occurs, I trust that it will eventually lead to something good. Every challenge, every setback has always opened a new door for me, and I’ve seen this truth play out again and again. It gives me strength in my personal life and inspires me to help my clients see beauty in every moment, even the imperfect ones.
If resources were not a constraint, what would be your dream project?
My dream project would be to create a traveling photo series about families all over the world — capturing their traditions, love, and daily life. I would love to show how different we are, yet how universal love, care, and connection truly are. It would be like building a visual encyclopedia of humanity’s heart.
How do you balance your personal life and needs with your professional responsibilities?
To be honest, it’s not always easy. In photography, there are no real weekends or breaks — you’re constantly answering messages, planning shoots, editing, and staying connected with clients. Sometimes it feels like the work never ends. And yes, this can affect the time I’d love to fully dedicate to my daughter. But I’m learning to set boundaries, to be present with her in the moments we do have together, and to remind myself that she is also my biggest source of inspiration. In many ways, she keeps me grounded and reminds me why I chose this path in the first place.
Photographer: Alisa Tantsyreva @alisa.tant
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