Julia Yatel: Fire energy
CALEB SCHAFTLEIN,
Could you please provide us with a professional introduction about yourself and your photography work?
My name is Julia Yatel. I entered the world of fashion photography after many years of working as a successful makeup artist and hair stylist. I'm originally from Ukraine, and nearly seven years ago, moving to Portugal by the ocean opened up new opportunities for me. For over six years now, I've been combining two roles — fashion photographer and makeup artist. Every piece in my portfolio is the result of this integrated professional vision, where every detail matters.
Can you tell us about how you got started in photography?
In Portugal, I initially worked mainly as a makeup artist. Every time I created a glowing makeup look, I’d ask photographers to take beautiful portraits of the models. But often, they were reluctant to shoot in bright sunlight. I, on the other hand, have always loved vibrant light that highlights beauty. I began to realize I saw the frame differently. My husband convinced me to buy my first camera, and after my very first shoot, my photos landed on the cover of a fashion magazine in Miami. Since then, I can’t imagine my life without a camera.
What was your passion driving you during your journey? Who or what prompted you to begin?
Beauty has always been my main inspiration. I knew I wanted to work specifically in fashion. I love planning every shoot from start to finish — from makeup and styling to the final frame. I find true inspiration in the uniqueness of each model.
Could you walk us through your photoshoot planning process?
When I’m shooting for a brand, everything starts with clear goals and a visual concept. Together we define the style, choose the location, and find the right model. I’m one of those photographers who loves thorough preparation. Only then can I create freely on set and have room for experimentation. For editorial shoots, it usually starts with the model. Sometimes I just see a particular type — and a full visual story instantly forms in my mind. I value strong energy and personality in a model. I love working with those who have fire in their eyes.
As a photography expert, what sets your work apart from other photographers?
My work stands out for its unusual angles and unique approach. I often break composition rules because I see the world differently. During a shoot, I dive deep into the creative flow. Of course, when shooting by brief, I follow the plan — but luckily, brands that come to me are already drawn to my perspective. They ask for something bold and distinctive. As a makeup artist, I pay extra attention to skin and portraiture. In every series, you’ll see a powerful, captivating portrait where the model's eyes tell a story.
Where do you get your ideas for photoshoots?
I find inspiration in almost everything that surrounds me — textures, colors, landscapes, moments. Recently, I stumbled upon a breathtaking beach framed by striking orange cliffs. The very next week, we shot a new campaign there for a highly successful Finnish fashion brand, Nakoa.
I am truly proud of our collaboration and the way this brand continues to grow and evolve. Every shoot with Nakoa fuels my creative energy even more — their dresses are the embodiment of elegance and freedom, the kind that every woman dreams of wearing. There’s a sense of effortless beauty and authenticity in their designs that perfectly aligns with my visual style. Together, we create images that not only showcase fashion, but also tell a story of feminine strength, grace, and individuality.
Can you tell us about the most memorable moment you've had as a photographer and what experience you gained from that?
One of the most ambitious projects I’ve ever worked on was a large-scale campaign shoot for the renowned Indian brand Woodland. The preparation process was immense and meticulous — from scouting and selecting the perfect locations and models, to refining the visual style and assembling the right team. The client and their team flew to Portugal, and together we spent several days exploring every potential shooting spot across two cities — Porto and Lisbon.
The original plan called for four full shoot days, each with different models and distinct locations. Everything was carefully mapped out to the last detail. But then came March — and with it, rain. A sudden, unrelenting shift in weather caught us by surprise. That evening, our entire team gathered, and within minutes, we had to rethink and redesign the whole plan for the next four days.
I watched in real-time how a thoroughly organized, large-scale project could shift and evolve in response to something as simple — and unpredictable — as the weather. I’ve always been adaptable and ready to pivot when needed, but this time, the level of responsibility and stakes were much higher. Thankfully, we found smart solutions quickly, the shoot turned out beautifully, and the client was genuinely thrilled with the results.
Since that experience, I approach every new project with an even greater sense of preparation — and always have a plan B and C ready to go, no matter how perfect plan A may seem.
What are the most important components of an extraordinary photograph, in your opinion?
For me, the key to extraordinary photography is constant evolution and trying new things. I love taking risks, experimenting, and learning from my mistakes. That hunger for aesthetic growth is my biggest motivation.
How do you strike a balance between your artistic expression and your client's expectations during a shoot?
Striking a balance between artistic expression and a client’s expectations is definitely a challenge. My mind is often overflowing with bold, unconventional ideas — visions that bend or even break traditional rules of composition and storytelling. But through countless shoots for both brands and private clients, I’ve developed a clear understanding of how to work within a brief while still infusing each project with creative depth.
Most brands approach me specifically to shoot their latest collections. For every look, I create two types of content: first, clean and structured imagery that fulfills the commercial needs — similar to catalog shots; and second, artistic visuals that capture a more emotional, aspirational story. This dual approach ensures that clients walk away with versatile content — product-focused images perfect for e-commerce, alongside striking, imaginative frames that shine on social media and connect emotionally with their audience.
It’s this blend — functionality and artistry — that allows me to stay true to my vision while delivering real value to the brands I work with.
How do other artists influence your work? Are there any other photographers you look up to? Who?
I follow the work of many photographers. One of my favorites is Carla Guler (@carlaguler) — her wide-angle shots are bold and beautiful. She actually inspired me to buy a new lens for that kind of experimentation. I also admire the aesthetic of Lachlan Bailey, known for his work with celebrities. His taste is impeccable.
How do you enhance your vision after a session by post-processing your photos? Do you have a best-kept secret for editing processing that you'd like to share?
Selecting the final shots is almost a ritual for me. I pay close attention to detail, but the main focus is always the energy in the model’s eyes. Color correction is also crucial. Color sets the mood — it can make a photo feel luxurious and stylish or casual and lifestyle-driven. You can see all my experiments with color and style on my Instagram.
Can you tell us about the most difficult photographic challenge you've ever had, including lighting, unexpected situations, and how you managed the issues on set?
Shooting outdoors means weather is both my best friend and my biggest challenge. We often shoot spring-summer collections in February or March — the most unpredictable months. This March, it started pouring rain during a shoot. We couldn’t stop due to our tight schedule, so I adapted: changing locations on the spot, placing the model under shelter while I shot in the rain. One trick I’ve learned — in bad weather, choose colorful backgrounds. In post-production, those colors can really save a photo. Another challenge: once we shot for a heel brand and the shoes were too big for the model. We spent a lot of time finding the right angles to hide it, and I spent twice as long editing so the shoes would look like a perfect fit.
What are your top tips for aspiring photographers on skill development and finding their own creative voice? How did you develop yours?
My biggest tip for aspiring photographers: shoot a lot. Try different styles and approaches. You’ll know something is truly yours when, in the middle of a shoot, your heart beats faster and your eyes light up. That’s what happened to me during my first high-fashion shoot.
What is your favorite piece of work you've ever shot?
If I could choose, I’d always shoot high-fashion dresses. It’s my true passion. Recently, I started working with a very talented Portuguese designer, Filipe Blanquet. We’ve done several shoots with his unique gowns. One of the images even made it into Vogue. It was one of those magical projects where everything — concept, dress, model — aligned perfectly.
Can you tell me about an upcoming project you're working on and the idea behind it?
My next big project is a yacht shoot. We’re creating content for a skincare brand, as well as stylish fashion images for the brand owner. Shooting on a yacht is a real challenge — it’s constantly moving, and I can’t move as freely as usual. I have to choose my angles wisely and make the most of each one. I’m confident it’ll be both stylish and beautiful.
Can you tell us the story behind creating the photographs you submitted?
The image I submitted was another collaboration with designer Filipe Blanquet. When I saw his dramatic feathered sleeves, I immediately imagined shooting by the ocean. The model, Rita, had this magnetic energy — she was the perfect fit. It was freezing and the ocean was icy, but the light was magical. We shot the whole series in just twenty minutes. I wanted to capture her strength, the bold red look, and a sense of wild freedom on the shore.
Where can we view more of your work and connect with you?
Photo: @julia.yatel
Video: @anton_volnyanskyy
Modeling Agency: @karacteragency
Fashion: @filipeblanquet
MUA: @julia.yatel
Model: @ritafmsantos
