Born in Russia and now located in North Carolina, Ksenia Belanger was raised by a mother who insisted on her drawing from a multitude of cultural identities via numerous theaters museums, and conventions in order to shine at life. Her exposure to the arts at such an early age, sparked her imagination and encouraged her to follow her dreams as a photographer. Now as a mother of two boys, she strives to capture childhood and embrace the art of storytelling.

Drawing inspiration from the creative genius of Johannes Vermeer and Annie Leibovitz, Ksenia’s camerawork lends itself to lifestyle and fine art which is why we asked her to create a course on such in the Academy. Her course, ”The Depths of Storytelling and Childhood Photography” breaks down concepts such as styling, flatlays, posing, colors, lighting and even food photography. She wants to document all aspects of an authentic childhood and not just the posed moments. Every little detail counts.

For more inspiration from Ksenia:

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Learn from Ksenia in the Academy with her course, The Depths of Storytelling and Childhood Photography and Documenting the First Few Months.

Here is Ksenia, Unraveled…

What inspired your art?

My children

What do you shoot with? Camera body and favorite lens?

Sony Alpha 7 R IV and Sigma Art 105 mm, 35 mm and 24 mm

What other ways do you express your creativity?

drawing with my kids and making dry flower arrangements

How do you de-stress at the end of the day?

A nice bath with lavender salt.

What kind of music do you listen to while editing?

I usually I love it when it’s quiet :))

What is your favorite book?

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls

Name one movie that inspires you.

Little Women

How do you handle self-doubt or creative slumps?

Giving myself a little grace and waiting out.

What has been the most difficult part of your creative journey?

Self-doubt, comparing myself to others and finding my own voice.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Pear and gorgonzola

Who is one of your favorite photographers?

Annie Leibovitz. I never heard of her until I gave birth to my son and my grandmother gave me a book as a gift. I was like “Oh my goodness! I want to take photos like these one day!” and the journey still continues…