We are just one month away from Fashion Weeks. Spy News Magazine had a chance to catch up with Julia Bortsova, young promising street style photographer for a quick talk. Check it out.
Julia Borsova
SNM: You had nothing to do with photography until you moved in Milan, didn’t you? Was it just a hobby that you managed to turn into a day job? Please share with our readers about your relationship with the camera.
Julia: Everything has started in a strange way. Five years ago I had my own event management company. I was quite happy with what I was doing, especially money wise. But a couple of years later I felt that something was missing. The decision was to quit my job and move abroad, just to get away and figure out what exactly was missing. At that time I wasn’t even thinking about photography from professional point of view. But in the same time something was telling me to check it out. So I made up my mind to follow my instincts and try something new. I applied for a digital course in NABA, Milan.
SNM: Why did you choose Milan over London, Paris or NY?
Julia: Oh well, I believe Milan is similar to my hometown, St.Petersburg.Though when I first came here I didn’t feel home. Can’t explain.. It took some time. Now I feel different. There is definitely something in the air that makes me feel good. (smiling) Moreover, St.Petersburg was mostly built by Italian architectures. So I think I have been breathing Italian culture since I was a kid.
SNM: How long did it take for you to integrate into new culture?
Julia: Honeslty, my first year in Milan was really difficult. I thought of moving out several times. Guess, people I met, made me stay. So I changed my mind. Now I consider Milan my second home. I like this city and its vibes. So no regrets about staying.
SNM: Does photography allow you to live the lifestyle you had while running event company?What motivates you?
Julia: Uff.. so many pros and cons. I think the most important is to be aware of yourself and your personal goals. If you have clear vision and objectives, able to organise your personal time and to motivate yourself- GO AHEAD! Do not be afraid of anything. As Nelson Mandela said once “The courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not  who does not feel afraid, but  who conquers that fear”.
SNM: Any particular reason of choosing street style?
 Julia: First of all, I am into fashion street style as I am a girl who loves fashion. I have a degree in Fashion Marketing from Marangoni Institute as well. I assume it meant to be somehow. (laughing).Secondly, I adore natural light and movement on the picture, it feels like a kind of performance. Catching the right moment makes your photography more real than the reality itself.
SNM:  Who are your favourite street style photographer?
Julia: By all means Vincenzo Grillo.  Tyler Joe is very talented photographer and a God of street style videos. Just have a look on his Instagram!
SNM: You have been shooting street style during Fashion weeks for the last six seasons. What are your favourite shows?
Julia:  Dolce&Gabbana, no doubts. The show and fun happens outdoors. Love the elegant and laconic mood before Giorgio Armani and Alberta Ferretti shows.
SNM: How do you think street style has been changing over the last years?
Julia: People became more open minded and brave with their choices. This is a good tendency for street style photo as an art area where everyone can express himself and get inspired. Its my source of inspiration.
By Russ Ev