Meet Liana Islamgareeva | Photographer and photography mentor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Liana Islamgareeva and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Liana, why did you pursue a creative career?
Before photography, I explored different fields, constantly seeking something new. My main occupation was in sales across various industries, but even there, I was unconsciously connected to photography and creativity. On different projects, I often had to take photos or shoot videos.

Looking back, I realize that photography has always been with me. **In my student years,** I carried a small Sony digital camera to every event and outing—those cameras are trending again now! But I never dreamed of becoming a photographer or doing it professionally.

Everything changed in 2017 when I accidentally came across an ad for a trial photography lesson on camera settings. I used to hire photographers for my projects, but that day, I decided to learn how to shoot on my own. That decision became life-changing. I got hooked. I started taking pictures of everything around me, sharing my work on social media, and soon, people began asking me for photoshoots. Word of mouth spread, and more and more clients started coming to me.

I was inspired by the ability to express myself, do what I genuinely love, and receive positive feedback. Recognition is very important to me, and I found it in this profession. I also feel deeply motivated by the opportunity to work with well-known people, models, and brands, travel the world, and draw inspiration from everything around me.

If I were to answer the question directly, I’d say: “I didn’t choose a creative career—it chose me. And we had the perfect match!”

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My Artistic Journey: Passion, Challenges, and the Beauty of Photography

My path as a photographer has been far from easy, but it has been an exciting and rewarding adventure. I like to approach everything as if it were a game, where you must pass different levels to progress. At the beginning, you are a novice—you shoot everything and everyone, with no clear style or defined artistic vision. Then comes a turning point, a moment of doubt: *Why am I doing this? Should I quit and choose an easier, more predictable path?*

Looking back, I am incredibly proud of myself for not giving up when things were difficult, uncertain, and even frightening. I am deeply grateful to my environment and especially to my best friend, whom I met at a photography school over eight years ago. Her support has been invaluable, and we remain close to this day.

Over time, my journey led me to incredible experiences—traveling, meeting fascinating people, and shooting in diverse environments and climates. Working with well-known figures brought new levels of responsibility and pushed me to grow. Photography is not just about taking pictures; it’s a fusion of multiple professions in one. As a photographer, you must be an organizer, an artist, a psychologist, a retoucher, a visual storyteller, and sometimes even a stylist, marketer, salesperson, social media specialist, and communicator with a strong and resilient mindset. And that’s just the beginning!

But I love every bit of it. Reaching a certain level requires continuous learning and mastering a variety of skills, and I find that process incredibly engaging. Now, I am not only a photographer but also a mentor. I teach photography from the ground up and conduct masterclasses on lighting and retouching. I love inspiring people, sharing my knowledge, and guiding them on their creative journey.

What excites me most is that photography has the power to create timeless art. My work could become the cover of a book or a music album, be displayed on massive billboards, captivate audiences in galleries, or serve as the finishing touch in a beautifully designed space. Photography preserves moments that can never be repeated—it captures emotions, tells stories, and brings beauty into the world.

I take immense pride in my profession and feel honored to be part of something truly meaningful.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Los Angeles is a paradise for food lovers, and my friends and I truly appreciate a great meal. I believe that if someone enjoys good food, they have a true passion for life! When hosting my best friend for a week, I would make sure to take them on an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible dining experiences, breathtaking views, and iconic LA vibes.

We’d kick off the trip with dinner at one of the elegant restaurants in Beverly Hills, soaking in the luxurious atmosphere. Afterward, we’d head to a rooftop bar in Downtown LA to enjoy craft cocktails and take in the stunning skyline as the city lights up at night.

No LA trip is complete without experiencing the coastal lifestyle. We’d rent bikes and ride along the scenic path from Santa Monica to Venice Beach, stopping to watch street performers, check out the Venice Canals, and enjoy fresh seafood with an ocean view. The sunset here is magical, best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand.

A visit to the Hollywood Sign is a must! We’d hike up to a viewpoint above the sign for the most breathtaking cityscape. Afterward, a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a visit to the TCL Chinese Theatre would give a taste of the city’s film history. In the evening, we’d explore trendy restaurants and hidden speakeasies in West Hollywood.

Los Angeles has some of the best museums, and I’d make sure to show my friend a mix of them. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), The Broad, the GRAMMY Museum, and The Getty Center are all must-visit spots. Each offers a unique perspective on art, music, and history. After a day of culture, we’d unwind at a cozy wine bar in Silver Lake or a trendy rooftop lounge.

LA is a shopping paradise! We’d explore the boutiques on Melrose Avenue, Rodeo Drive for the high-end experience, and The Grove for a mix of fashion and entertainment. In between, we’d stop for brunch at a charming café, maybe one in West Hollywood known for its aesthetic and delicious food.

On the final day, we’d keep it easy—maybe a spa day or a slow brunch at one of LA’s top breakfast spots. In the evening, we’d head to Griffith Observatory to watch the sunset over the city one last time. It’s the perfect way to reflect on an amazing week before saying goodbye to the City of Angels.

This itinerary combines the best of what LA has to offer—amazing food, breathtaking views, cultural gems, and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s an experience that would leave any visitor in love with the city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I express my gratitude to my family, who always support me and never stand in the way of my endeavors.

To my younger brother, Rodion Islamgareev, because it was with his camera that my journey as a photographer began.

I am grateful to my close friend, Anastasia Roganova, with whom I started this journey and met in photography school. We have supported each other throughout the entire journey and continue to do so even now. She never let me give up or quit halfway.

To my friend and stylist, Alina Galimzianova, with whom I have gone through a long journey, including our first magazine publications and major projects. We still support each other to this day.

To the talented makeup artist, stylist and my friend, Taisiia Malikova, with whom we created many outstanding projects in Bali, and for her support!

To all my teachers, from whom I have learned—there were many, in different cities and countries, both offline and online.

Website: https://temnaya.wfolio.pro

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ph_temnaya

Image Credits
Anastasia Mikhailova.
Lauris Hounkpevi.
Lada Kuzmenko
Sasha Mikhaylova.
Albina Ananyeva
Yulia Golygina