Varvara TOUSSAINT: Paris dream

Could you please provide us with a professional introduction about yourself and your photography work?

My name is Varvara Toussaint. I am a professional brand and fashion photographer. Since 2000, I have been working in the beauty and fashion industry, and since 2019, I have been a professional photographer. I began my photography career after taking the "Magic Push" course by Margarita Kareva. This gave me a strong input into the world of beauty and creativity. I chose two main directions: business shoots and fashion photography. With a well-structured visual approach, my clients reach a new, professional income level in their businesses and confidently position themselves on social media, websites, and in portfolios. A photoshoot is not just about beautiful photographs; it is also an event that brings vivid emotions, boosts self-confidence, and reveals personality. My superpower is the ability to organize the perfect shoot from A to Z. I think through everything down to the details: style, clothing, location. Clients don’t have to worry about anything—just show up for the shoot.

Can you tell us about how you got started in photography?

I have loved photography since childhood when my mother developed negatives in special liquids. I began to pursue it professionally 6 years ago.

What was your passion driving you during your journey? Who or what prompted you to begin?

My mother.

Could you walk us through your photoshoot planning process?

The organization of a shoot looks as follows:

• Agreeing on the date and shooting package, prepayment.

• Conducting a briefing (20-30 minutes online).

• Developing a shooting strategy (location, lighting, mood board, shooting guide).

• Conducting the photoshoot.

• Post-production and assembling the grid (content).

As a photography expert, what sets your work apart from other photographers?

I have many years of experience working with people and in the beauty industry! I have a well-developed sense of aesthetics.

Where do you get your ideas for photoshoots?

Everywhere—in people, on the street, while traveling, in movies, at exhibitions.

Can you tell us about the most memorable moment you've had as a photographer and what experience you gained from that?

Every moment is special for me!

Can you tell us the story behind creating the photographs you submitted?

The photos you presented were taken in Paris with model Naiz and Mathieu. We aimed to convey the romance, love, and mystery of relationships in the city of love.

Photographer & Creative Director: Varvara Toussaint
instagram.com/varvaratoussaintfotografie?igsh=OHNyMzVzODAyaXIx
instagram.com/varvaratoussaint_fotostyle?igsh=MTNqM2ZucjVlcm02NA==
Make Up Artist & Hair Styling: Maria Nazarenko
instagram.com/mua_mariya_nazarenko?igsh=MTBnYzVjaHRoOW16dQ==
Fashion Stylist:Yana Gernets
instagram.com/ya.nagernets?igsh=eHQzcmcxc2Z3ZHI1
instagram.com/_bu_re?igsh=Z3ZyamllYmRybGht
Model: Nais Wollenhaupt
instagram.com/naistill?igsh=MWJka2JldHYyNWRx
Male Model: Matthieu de Pallares
instagram.com/matthieu.de.pallares?igsh=MWxkdTc3ZTEwYzJlNQ==

Retouching: Kristina Burtzeva
instagram.com/_bu_re?igsh=Z3ZyamllYmRybGht

You can view more of my work and contact me through:

• Instagram: @varvaratoussaintfotografie

What are the most important components of an extraordinary photograph, in your opinion?

Every photographer has their own take! For me, it’s understanding people; I try to feel them. A sense of aesthetics and joy in work are crucial. And most importantly, it’s a cohesive team!

How do you strike a balance between your artistic expression and your client's expectations during a shoot?

I have a conversation with them before the shoot to understand their wishes and feel them out.

How do other artists influence your work? Are there any other photographers you look up to? Who?

I strive to study the work of world-renowned photographers. They are a benchmark to aspire to. I like various styles from Lindberg to Tim Walker.

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?

I am very critical of myself!

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?

Such situations happen all the time, but I love to improvise, so it feels very familiar to me and gives me even more motivation.

What are your top tips for aspiring photographers on skill development and finding their own creative voice? How did you develop yours?

I am still searching for my style. It’s a process! And I just enjoy it.

What is your favorite piece of work you've ever shot?

I really like my latest work that was published in your magazine! It was a shoot in Paris.

Can you tell me about an upcoming project you're working on and the idea behind it?

In my new project, I want to combine classic elements with the modern world. Let’s see what comes of it.

Photo: @fashionfotografiefrankfurt

Retoucher: @_bu_re

Model: @naistill

Stylist & Model: @ya.nagernets

Fashion Show: @varvaratoussaintfotografie

Model: @matthieu.de.pallares

MUA: @mua_mariya_nazarenko

Via @officialkavyar