Marina Shipova is an award-winning visual storyteller whose journey from illustration to photography has shaped a unique artistic voice. Her work blends light, emotion, and mythology into dreamlike images that feel both timeless and deeply personal. In this conversation, she shares the inspirations, challenges, and creative processes behind her poetic lens.
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey into photography?
I’m an artist, photographer, and educator with a deep love for visual storytelling. While my journey into photography began a few years ago, my creative path started much earlier—I was an illustrator first. I’ve always been captivated by the power of images to tell stories, evoke emotion, and reveal hidden worlds. Photography became a natural extension of that passion. It gave me a new medium to paint with light, emotion, and imagination.
2. What emotions or stories do you aim to convey through your photography?
I’m drawn to fantasy, myth, and the feminine connection to nature. My work often explores dreamlike narratives, archetypes, and moments of quiet magic. I want my photographs to feel like a visual poem or a page from a fairytale—where the viewer is pulled into a story that exists between the seen and the unseen. I aim to evoke curiosity, wonder, and sometimes a touch of nostalgia or mystery.
3. Can you describe a specific moment or project that had a profound impact on you as an artist?
Winning “Best of Show” at Photoshop World—early in my photography journey—was a turning point. I was still uncertain if this was the right path for me, still searching for my voice and style. That recognition felt like a sign from the universe, saying: This is it. Keep going. It gave me the confidence to claim my identity as a photographer and trust the direction I was headed.
4. How do you approach a new project or series? Do you follow a specific process or let intuition guide you?
I approach photography like any creative project—starting with an idea and asking, “What if?” I love pushing boundaries and turning imaginative concepts into reality. If something can’t be captured as I envision it in-camera, I turn to compositing in Photoshop. I often sketch out scenes, build mood boards, and let intuition shape the rest. There’s a magic in allowing the process to evolve organically. I’m not interested in playing it safe—normal is boring. I want to create something that challenges and excites me.
5. How has your artistic vision evolved over the years?
My vision has grown as I’ve grown. I’m naturally curious—I follow where inspiration leads, whether that’s into nature, mythology, or surrealism. Early on, I was focused on mastering technical skills. Now, I’m more interested in creating emotional impact and visual storytelling. My work has become more intentional, layered, and symbolic. I still wander, but now I wander with purpose.
6. What role does light play in your work, both technically and emotionally?
Light is everything—it’s the soul of an image. Technically, it shapes form, texture, and contrast. Emotionally, it sets the entire tone. I’m always chasing not the perfect light, but the interesting light—the kind that transforms a subject into something more poetic. I sometimes call myself a “light seeker.” Whether using natural golden-hour glow or building a moody scene with artificial light, I’m obsessed with how light reveals and conceals—how it tells a story without words.
7. Are there any particular themes or subjects you find yourself returning to, consciously or subconsciously?
Yes—again and again, I return to classical, painterly aesthetics. There’s something timeless about blending photography with the spirit of traditional fine art. I’m also drawn to themes of femininity, transformation, and the elements—earth, water, sky. These motifs show up repeatedly in my work, whether I plan for them or not. They feel like part of my creative DNA.
8. What’s the most challenging photo you’ve ever taken, and why?
Recently, I’ve been working on underwater portraits with a very limited budget—and that has been technically one of my hardest shoots. There’s a constant dance of movement, light distortion and the challenge of redefining gravity itself, where every gesture floats and unfolds in slow motion. But the deeper challenge—the emotional one—has always been finding the right collaborator. As a portrait artist, I rely on genuine connection. The most difficult images are the ones where the vision is clear, but the emotional spark isn’t quite there. When it is, though—it’s magic.
9. How do you stay creatively inspired, especially during periods of low motivation?
When I feel stuck, I go back to my roots—drawing, painting, flipping through old sketchbooks. I let myself play without pressure. I read fairytales, revisit classic art, or take long walks in nature. Often, it’s in the stillness that the next idea emerges. Creativity is a cycle. I’ve learned not to panic during quiet periods—they’re just part of the rhythm of making art.
10. What advice would you give to emerging photographers who are still finding their voice?
Don’t be afraid to wander. Try everything—portrait, landscape, surreal, documentary. Take risks. Make mistakes. Then take more. Eventually, you’ll find the work that feels like home. And once you do—dig in deep. Don’t chase trends. Let your intuition lead the way. The most powerful images come from a place of truth and curiosity. Tell the story only you can tell.
11. Finally, is there anything you’d like to express that hasn’t been asked but feels important to share?
I want to highlight the power of community and mentorship. I’ve had the privilege of learning from generous artists who helped shape my path—and now, as an educator, I’m passionate about doing the same for others. Art isn’t a competition—it’s a conversation. When we support one another, we all grow. I hope my work continues to inspire others to create boldly, tell their stories, and embrace the magic of their unique voice.
Interview by: Behnam Raeesian
