Today we would like to share an interview with a photographer from Ukraine, Yana Adamova. Some time ago, we helped Yana obtain a residence permit in Montenegro.
Why We Moved to Montenegro
— Yana, how long have you been in Montenegro now, remind me? What was the reason for you and your husband to come here? If you made such a bold move, does it mean you weren’t tied to a permanent job back home?
My husband and I came to Montenegro six months ago. We are a family of freelancers, and the idea of moving to another country had been on our minds for a long time. We considered various options — from Europe to South America. But some countries were either too far away and culturally very different, or too expensive to live in. We came across an article about Montenegro by chance, and it sparked both interest and doubt. On one hand, there were the not-so-distant events in the former Yugoslavia, which made us think that the people and the country were still economically, socially, and emotionally unstable. And the well-known phrase “The Balkans are the powder keg of Europe” still left the feeling that someone might light the fuse one day…
However, all geopolitical concerns were quickly dispelled. Montenegro appeared confident and goal-oriented on the global stage, despite its small size. Clean nature, beautiful — even magical — landscapes in some areas, relative territorial and cultural closeness to our homeland, and a mild climate became the main reasons for our move.
First Impressions of Life in Montenegro
— Yana, what can you say about the country at this point? Do you see any downsides or overlook some things?
During this short time, I’ve met many people, both locals and Russians, whom I had to deal with from time to time. I’m surprised by how incredibly slow Montenegrins can be when it comes to solving tasks — and it doesn’t even matter who benefits from the result. I haven’t noticed any prejudice or negative attitude toward me. Sometimes people try to take advantage of me, for example, at the market, by offering inflated prices, but I’m well informed about the usual cost of goods and services, so I don’t fall for those tricks. As the saying goes, “forewarned is forearmed.” And in fact, it happens much less often than back home and usually doesn’t happen twice.
Opportunities for Photographers in Montenegro
— Would you say there are opportunities for personal growth in Montenegro? In your case — as a photographer?
I believe there are always opportunities for personal growth, no matter where you live. But there are conditions that can speed up the process. In Montenegro, nature is very diverse and changes its colors every month. The people are open and friendly — many ask me to take their photo when they see me with a camera. And when I shoot candidly, people don’t throw things at me or start yelling (laughs). There are also bright festivals and holidays — all of this inspires me, pushes me to take more photos, experiment, and try out new ideas.
Is There Competition Among Photographers?
— Is the competition in this field high in Montenegro, and how do you evaluate your fellow photographers? Do you communicate with any of them? Maybe organize some gatherings to exchange experience, hold exhibitions or even do joint shoots?
Today, many people have expensive DSLR cameras, so every second person considers themselves a photographer — and not just a photographer, but a professional one. Still, there is real professional competition in Montenegro, both among locals and Russian-speaking photographers. The most important thing is that each photographer sees the same shot differently — and naturally, the result is different. There are some local specifics, too: for example, at many Montenegrin weddings, there’s a “local” photographer who, after taking pictures of the guests and key moments, immediately prints and sells them. So many people don’t feel the need for professional photography. There is a photo club in Bar that organizes themed photo meetings.
— From a business point of view, do you think photography can be profitable in Montenegro?
All types of services are actively developing in Montenegro — some people do better, others worse. I think if a photographer takes their work seriously and clients like the results, they’ll always be in demand.
— That sounds like a universal rule for any profession. Tell us, how long have you been doing photography and what have you achieved so far?
I’ve been doing photography professionally for 3 years, but my creative interest in this art form began back in my teenage years.
— Tell people in Montenegro about your work. What kind of photo shoots do you offer and at what prices? Many still associate photo sessions with studio lights and a model-looking girl whose face will soon be on a glossy magazine cover. Do you work in that stereotypical way, or do you prefer something else?
Yes, there are many stereotypes about photography in Montenegro, and for older people, it’s mostly associated with weddings. Nowadays, there are many genres and styles of photography. Some shoot boldly and aggressively, while others focus on bright and positive emotions. Some photographers limit themselves to just one area or genre and avoid trying something new. For me, in both life and photography, I follow this principle: where there’s no variety or ideas, there’s no life.
I like photographing people. I find everyone photogenic and attractive in their own way. The beauty of photographing ordinary people is that each one is unique in the picture.
A photo session isn’t just about standard poses, but also about bright emotions and having a good time. Real, sincere emotions are what make a photo not just beautiful, but alive. You can have a session in a studio, but I prefer shooting outdoors, in natural settings. Montenegro offers endless opportunities — castles and fortresses, gentle sea and mountains, colorful vegetation. This gives endless room for creativity and teamwork between the model and the photographer. In nature, people open up more easily and behave more naturally in front of the camera, which makes the shots more authentic and vivid.
Here are my prices:
- Wedding photo session – from €250 (bride and groom getting ready, walk) to €600 (getting ready, ceremony, walk, guests).
- Love Story or family shoot – €80.
- Portrait shoot (men, women, children) – €50.
- Real estate photography – from €50.
— Thank you. That’s very useful information. Who and where do you like working with the most? Every shoot has its own specifics, right? Some focus only on kids, others on weddings, or on nature…
I work with people in general and don’t limit myself to one type of photography.
The complexity of a shoot depends on its details. For example, in kids’ photo sessions, children get tired quickly and get distracted, so you need to come up with fun activities during the shoot. If it’s a big family portrait, someone will definitely yawn, close their eyes, or look away — so you have to take lots of photos and keep everyone focused for a while.
— Now that spring is here, do you have any new project plans? What’s in your portfolio?
Definitely. First of all, I’m planning several individual photo sessions in Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, Španjola, and Mamula. And of course, the sea, sun, beach, and waves — a perfect place for family, wedding, or individual photo shoots. I use only professional equipment and have several lenses in my kit. I’m also planning to buy some new and trendy accessories for wedding and individual shoots, as well as some additional gear.
— Do you have any dreams that are connected specifically with Montenegro?
In Montenegro, I dream of building a cozy family nest. I want to create a successful business that will go hand in hand with our passion — traveling and discovering new things.
— Thank you for the interesting interview and we wish you lots of success!
Watch another interview with an immigrant living in Montenegro.
