Undertones of Psychology - Vladimir Kolesnikov

Undertones of Psychology

“A picture is the confirmation of an experience, proof that someone was there to commemorate it with a camera. Furthermore, it is a testimony to the people I meet in my life, the things I do—my existence.”

It is hidden

among the secluded foothills of Sleepy Hollow, a small village in the Hudson Valley of upstate New York, that portrait and event photographer Vladimir Kolesnikov discovered a profound affection for preserving emotion and immortalizing intimate experiences through his craft.

Born in Moscow, Russia, Kolesnikov’s childhood consisted of frequent travel due to his parents’ work as interpreters. Exposed to an abundance of unique places and diverse faces, he developed an early fascination with documenting his experiences and perpetuating the delicate relationships he formed.

“My goal as a photographer is to create imagery that evokes feelings from the audience by genuinely capturing the conscience of my subject,” Kolesnikov describes.

Rather than pursuing an art-based degree, Kolesnikov majored in psychology in college, affording him the unique ability to dig deep into his subject’s subconscious to empathize with their ambitions and understand their interpersonal qualities, contributing to his uncanny approach to photography.

Reflecting on his astonishing creative process, Kolesnikov reveals: “How am I different? I approach all of my photo sessions with a psychologically based perspective that is client-driven and focuses on revealing their passions, interests and backstory to create powerful images that truly capture a person’s character, and allow me to convey those to the audience.” It is Kolesnikov’s conviction that establishing repartee and forming an intimate relationship with his subject enables him unparalleled access to the their personality, allowing him to comprehend their wants and needs, and adjust the project accordingly. In doing so, he hopes that his imagery will not only reflect the inclinations of his subject but that it will also enhance the experience and end result on their behalf.

While his approach to photography emphasizes emotional contributions from his subject, an inner-perception of the relationship coupled with Kolesnikov’s own emotions hold equivalent significance in shaping his photographic process.

He acknowledges: “It is impossible to create a meaningful image or capture your subject in a candid way without being able to connect with them on a personal level beyond the shoot. Sometimes it’s not so much about your artistic ability as it is about the capacity to connect with another human being on an emotional level.” In many ways, photography provided the emotional diversion Kolesnikov needed during a particularly reclusive and unsettling time in his life, and the art form continues to serve him. “As soon as I start taking photos, my love of photography and desire to create visually stimulating imagery takes over, at which point, I can focus more on capturing the energy of the subject,” he admits.

Photography continually pushes Kolesnikov to test the boundaries of his creative potential, urging him to pursue meaningful relationships and acting as his “saving grace”, which has allowed him to manifest his passion for capturing emotions and preserving memorable experiences.

Equipped with an exceptionally original approach to portrait photography, Kolesnikov ensures that his understanding of psychology and his talent behind a camera lens will continue to unearth heartfelt moments and fulfilling relationships, entertaining every facet of his imagination, and providing a place of mental solitude.

“A picture is the confirmation of an experience, proof that someone was there to commemorate it with a camera, “ Kolesnikov concludes, “Furthermore, it is a testimony to the people I meet in my life, the things I do—my existence.”