WORDS: MIA MEDAKOVIC
PHOTOS: ANTON WELT
ANTON WELT IS A COMMERCIAL AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER FROM RUSSIA WITH OVER 13 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. IN RECENT YEARS, HE REACHED A LEVEL OF COLLABORATION WITH MAJOR BRANDS AND WELL-KNOWN PERSONALITIES IN RUSSIA, INCLUDING CELEBRITIES, FOR MANY OF WHOM HE BECAME THEIR PERSONAL PHOTOGRAPHER. IN RUSSIA, HE ALSO SERVED AS A BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR SONY, GIVING LECTURES AND MASTERCLASSES.
HE MOVED TO SERBIA WITH HIS FAMILY ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO, BUT FREQUENTLY TRAVELS FOR CLIENT PHOTO SHOOTS TO ITALY, FRANCE, AND THE EMIRATES. IN BELGRADE, HE HAS FORMED A TEAM WITH WHOM HE CREATES BOTH ELEGANT PRIVATE PHOTO SESSIONS AND IMAGE CONTENT FOR BRANDS.
Can you describe your creative process when planning a shoot?
My creative process starts with gaining a deep understanding of the client’s needs. I take time to discuss the concept, the context, and the goals of the shoot. From there, I choose the right location, lighting, and props to visually tell a unique story. It’s always a balance of creativity and strategic planning.
What techniques do you use to make your subjects feel comfortable in front of the camera?
For most people, a photo shoot can be stressful, especially since it’s either a new or rare experience, and they often don’t know how to behave. I follow a few key principles.
First, it’s important that the person understands what we’re doing and why in each moment. I verbally explain which shot we’re working on and the emotion we’re trying to convey. If I make any adjustments to the equipment, I’ll explain the reason behind it and how it will impact the final result.
Secondly, I always try to find common ground from the very start of the shoot, engaging the person in conversation to distract them from the fact that they’re being photographed. We’re not just doing a shoot — we’re chatting, and I only press the shutter every once in a while. This helps make the whole process feel natural and relaxed.
How do you stay current with photographic trends and technology?
I certainly keep an eye on the work of key figures in the industry to understand the broader direction, but I don’t think that’s the most important thing. Trends are cyclical, and if you’re always chasing them, you’ll end up getting behind. For me, the most important thing is being an author who tells their own stories, reflecting a unique vision and style.
Can you share a challenging photo session experience and how you handled it?
Challenging shoots are the milestones that help you grow both as a professional and as a person. The first shoot in the studio, the first shoot for a magazine, the first shoot with a celebrity — these are the moments that leave a lasting impact.
Over the years, I’ve faced all kinds of challenges: equipment breaking down during critical shoots, clients arriving late, leaving us with only five minutes to shoot instead of an hour, or sometimes even clients sabotaging the shoot by refusing to participate.
In such situations, the most important thing is to tap into your experience and remain calm, projecting confidence that everything is under control. You have to lead the process in a way that reassures everyone involved that the outcome will be just as great, no matter the obstacles.
Is the photographer a magician?
A photographer is, first and foremost, a professional with a set of techniques and skills to achieve the desired result. But true magic happens when chance comes into play.
A sudden rainstorm, a skateboard unexpectedly appearing in the studio, or a gust of wind messing up the model’s hair — these are the moments that can actually make the shot even better than originally planned. If you’re open to these surprises and believe in the magic, it will happen.
What is your post-production editing process?
I always aim for the photo to look perfect right from the moment of the shoot, so that minimal editing is required. However, when retouching is needed, it should be done with the utmost care and skill. The key is that the retouching should be invisible, enhancing the natural beauty of the shot without being noticeable. This level of refinement is what truly reflects professionalism and quality.
How would you describe your photo studio in Dorcol?
Living in Belgrade for several years, I constantly asked myself: why do most photo studios here, in a city filled with beautiful natural daylight year-round, tend to be dark, closed-off spaces? Last year, I came up with the idea of creating a studio that would allow shooting with daylight all year round, and in November, I found the perfect space.
I can confidently say that my studio, a penthouse, is the place with the most beautiful natural light in the city. It’s a space where inspiration begins as soon as you step through the door. And of course, there is also the stunning view of the city center.
Who are your clients?
My clients are successful individuals who value quality and a personal touch. They range from business leaders and artists to fashion influencers and families looking to capture the important moments of their lives.
The topic for the January issue of RYL magazine is “The world according to my measure”. Can you say that you live according your measures?
Absolutely. In both my work and personal life, I strive to live by principles that reflect my values. In creating my projects, I seek not only visual beauty but also harmony with myself and the world around me.
