By: Lana PRME

Viktoriia Margolina has become an iconic figure in modern photography, captivating audiences worldwide from her base in Los Angeles. Her journey is a testament to her extraordinary talent and relentless drive, establishing her as a unique and influential artist in the field.

Margolina’s work spans a multitude of genres, reflecting her belief that every artist undergoes numerous creative phases. Her early phase, which she describes as a “Fascination with Family Values,” focused on capturing the essence of family life. These were not just photographs; they were profound explorations of trust, sincerity, and love within the family unit. The subtle yet sophisticated color palettes and the intimate poses of her subjects highlighted the deep connections she sought to portray.

Viktoriia’s ascent in the photography world is a story of self-made success. She has collaborated with leading celebrities and is on the verge of signing deals with international glossy magazines. Her accolades include the prestigious “Best Photographer” award in 2022 from the Fashion TV Awards, three solo exhibitions, and nearly 15 years of experience, marking her as an exceptional talent.

Seizing the Moment

The 2000s brought a technological revolution to photography, and Viktoriia was at its forefront. As traditional photo studios faded, she embraced the new era of diverse studio photoshoots, quickly rising to prominence. While others struggled to adapt, Viktoriia’s unparalleled creativity and vision set her apart, securing her a leading position in the industry.

A Passionate Beginning

Viktoriia’s love for photography was evident from a young age. “I could shoot 200 rolls of film a year,” she recalls, comparing her early dedication to that of professional photographers. She mastered the intricacies of film development and created images that were anything but amateur. Her talent caught the attention of local publications, leading to her work being featured in several newspapers and trendy bars. This exposure paved the way for her to win the “Celebrity Photographer of the Year” award at the MusicBox Gold Awards in 2019.

Growing up in St. Petersburg, a city renowned for its rich artistic heritage, Viktoriia’s creative spirit was nurtured from an early age. Her hometown played a crucial role in shaping her artistic vision, turning her into a star of fashion and portrait photography.

Initially, Margolina worked with photo studios, producing genre-defining images that soon garnered a growing number of private commissions. Her calendar quickly filled up, prompting her to embark on a solo career. “A photographer has many roles: retoucher, producer, and a punctual professional who delivers on time,” she explains, highlighting the multifaceted nature of her work.

The Margolina Revolution

Viktoriia challenged the conventional divide between commercial and creative photography, pioneering a new approach known as “The Margolina Revolution.” This movement, which gained traction in 2018, rejects the binary categorization of photographers. Followers of this revolution, inspired by Viktoriia, integrate creativity into commercial work, proving that one can excel artistically while achieving commercial success.

“An artist must be well-fed to have the energy and resources for creativity,” Viktoriia asserts. She believes that meeting basic needs is crucial for artists to thrive and that financial stability should not come at the expense of creative fulfillment. Her philosophy is that both commercial and creative pursuits are equally important and should not be mutually exclusive.

Photo Courtesy: Margolina’s Archive

Landmark Achievements

Viktoriia’s career is marked by significant milestones, including three major exhibitions in St. Petersburg within just two years—a remarkable achievement in the photography world. Her ability to consistently create masterpieces ensures her continued relevance in the fast-paced 21st century. Her extraordinary talent and innovative vision have earned her a lasting place in the spotlight.

Her work transcends traditional genre boundaries, exploring themes such as geometry, horses, and children. Each subject is approached with a unique perspective, whether it’s the visual play with shapes and landscapes, the graceful portrayal of horses from her equestrian background, or the deep, meaningful captures of children. Portraiture remains central to her work, with each image imbued with a sense of beauty and romanticism.

Mentorship and Influence

Since 2021, Viktoriia has actively contributed to significant social projects, mentoring young photographers and helping them elevate their craft. As a guest lecturer for the Aesthetic HUNTERS course, she has inspired many to pursue their creative passions. This international project, aimed at fostering aesthetic development and creative freedom, has held exhibitions across Russia, the CIS, and the USA.

Viktoriia’s role as a mentor involves providing professional critiques and sharing her extensive experience. Her goal is to inspire new photographers to create striking and memorable images. Her contributions have been widely recognized, with major publications covering her projects. She has also served as an honorary judge for global photography exhibitions, assessing the work of photographers from around the world.

Recent Triumphs

This spring, Viktoriia held an exhibition in Los Angeles titled “Distinguished Beauty,” which ran for a month. The exhibition showcased her incredible talent, leaving a profound impact on the art community. Her ability to capture beauty in every shot continues to astonish and inspire, reaffirming her status as a truly exceptional and unique talent in the world of photography.

Published by: Martin De Juan