Meet Anastasya Korol | San Diego Photographer

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

Hi Anastasya, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve been immersed in the arts for as long as I can remember. I started singing at age three, and throughout my childhood I explored painting, dance, and music. In high school, I threw myself into art, fashion, and performance, and eventually majored in music and photography in college. Creating has always been how I connect with the world — it’s how I process, celebrate, and elevate life.

For me, pursuing a creative career wasn’t a decision — it was a calling. I’ve always believed in living a beautiful life: one that is intentional, romantic, and full of meaning. I’ve never wanted to separate my work from my heart. Whether through song or imagery, I’ve long known that my purpose is to create beauty in the world, and to help others see it too.

I believe each of us carries a unique perspective and a gift meant to be shared. Mine happens to be in the arts — so I’ve built my life around it. And I can honestly say it’s been the most meaningful journey I could’ve imagined.

I started Anastasya Photography because I wanted to give people the gift of being seen in a beautiful light — to feel celebrated, elevated, and empowered. My work is rooted in quiet beauty, authenticity, and emotion. I create imagery that is sentimental, nostalgic, and romantic — the kind that helps my clients re-center themselves as the main character in their story and rediscover the wonder in their everyday life.

At Anastasya Photography, I specialize in crafting timeless, heirloom-quality images for couples, families, and artists in San Diego and beyond. Each photograph is created with care and intention — a soulful keepsake that only grows more meaningful as the years pass.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is rooted in authenticity, emotion, and quiet beauty. Through Anastasya Photography, I specialize in creating timeless, heirloom-quality images for individuals, couples, families, and artists in San Diego and beyond. I believe in crafting photography that feels natural, soulful, and cinematic — photos that only become more meaningful as we grow and change.

What sets my work apart is my client-centered approach. My goal isn’t just to take flattering photographs – it’s to deeply understand each clients needs, as well as their unspoken wants and desires. I focus on creating a genuinely relaxed, connected experience for my clients, where they can let go of expectations, feel completely at ease, and simply enjoy the experience of being seen and celebrated. Many of my clients are looking for a San Diego photographer who offers a down-to-earth, heartfelt experience — that’s something I pride myself on.

I’m most proud of the way my work helps people see themselves and their lives with fresh eyes — finding beauty, romance, and meaning in their own everyday experiences, or pivotal life chapters. Creating imagery that feels deeply personal, yet timeless, is what excites me the most. At the heart of my photography is a love for connection — a desire to create enduring images that capture the deeper essence of a moment, a relationship, or a feeling. Clients often tell me they chose Anastasya Photography because they felt an immediate connection to the natural, romantic style of my work.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a 13 year journey of passion, persistence, and constant growth. It wasn’t always easy. Building a creative career takes more than talent; it takes resilience, learning how to balance artistry with entrepreneurship, and having the courage to stay true to your vision even when the path feels uncertain.

There were times when the road felt steep — moments of self-doubt, financial uncertainty, and learning curves in marketing, branding, and client experience. I overcame those challenges by staying true to my purpose (to create beauty), and adapting to the ever-changing landscape. I invest time in learning new skills, honing my craft, developing a strong brand identity, and building an online presence through authentic storytelling and strong SEO foundations, so the right clients can find me.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that consistency, heart, and integrity matter just as much as creativity. Staying grounded in my ‘why’ — creating soulful, timeless imagery rooted in genuine connection — has carried me through every challenge.

What I want the world to know about my brand is simple: At Anastasya Photography, I create images that honor your journey. Every photo is crafted with care, emotion, and an eye for beauty — designed to be an enduring memento that you’ll treasure for years to come. My work isn’t just about photography — it’s about celebration, connection, and creating a visual legacy of life, love, and memory.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When I have friends, or clients, from out of town visit, here’s what I recommend!

Beaches: Torrey Pines State Beach, Cardiff State Beach, Wind and Sea Beach. These are the most scenic in my opinion, and favorites for photo sessions.

Spots to walk around : The San Diego Waterfront (beer by the water), Little Italy (shops and food), Gaslamp (nightlife), North Park (shops and food), Downtown Escondido (art galleries).

Places to eat: Convoy, Little Italy, Northpark. You can’t go wrong!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a shoutout to the San Diego Music and Art Company. They’ve been an incredible support and influence throughout my artistic journey. As a collective and workplace for musicians and artists, they’ve created a vibrant hub for community, creativity, and collaboration — a space where inspiration feels alive.

I regularly use their open performance space as a temporary studio for my photography sessions, which allows me the flexibility to create in an artistic environment. They also host monthly art and music events, sponsored by the Musicians Empowerment Collective nonprofit, where I’ve had the opportunity to display and share my work with the community.

I’m so grateful to be part of a place that nurtures the arts and provides real, tangible support for creatives following their passions!

Website: https://www.anastasyaphotography.com

Instagram: anastasyaphotography

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasya-korol-bb293367

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnastasyaPhotography/