olodymyr is a street photographer from Ukraine who now lives in the Czech Republic. He has a special way of capturing everyday moments by taking pictures of random people on the streets and then surprising them with instant prints of their photos. This spontaneous gesture brings smiles and joy to those he photographs, creating memorable and heartfelt interactions.
Volodymyr started his journey in photography out of a love for capturing and sharing special moments, and over time, he decided to take his passion to the streets. He chooses his subjects based on a gut feeling, looking for people who stand out because of their expressions or unique features. For Volodymyr, photography is not just about taking pictures; it’s about connecting with people and sharing a bit of happiness in the process.
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When asked what inspired him to start photographing strangers and gifting them instant prints, Volodymyr explained, “Photography entered my life when I realized that I loved the idea of preserving and sharing important moments. There’s something deeply satisfying about capturing a fleeting moment and then offering it as a gift. I had always enjoyed taking photos with my phone, but when I started taking pictures of strangers and saw their reactions, I knew I had found something special. The look of surprise, the unexpected joy—it felt like a small way to make the world just a bit brighter. The idea itself isn’t new, but it’s the emotional response that makes it unique. In today’s world, we’re surrounded by digital images, so a tangible photo, printed right there and handed to someone, carries a weight of personal connection. It’s my way of saying, ‘I see you, I appreciate this moment, and I want you to have it.’”
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On how he decides which people to photograph, the photographer shared, “It’s mostly based on intuition. As I walk, I’m looking for expressiveness—something in the person’s emotion, their energy, or their unique features that catches my eye. Often, I feel this sense that a particular person has the potential for a meaningful photograph. It’s not about traditional ideas of beauty; it’s more about capturing diversity and authenticity. I try to approach each person with respect, aware that each individual has their own story. Sometimes, it’s not even about their appearance but the situation they’re in or the expression on their face that draws me in. I aim to reflect all kinds of beauty and make people feel valued and seen.”
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