23 Sep Anastasiya | Studio Test Shoot with MIM Models
Recently, I’ve been connecting more with MIM Models International Management, and I’ve been excited about the opportunity to work with new talent and photograph emerging models here in Ottawa.
This session with Anastasiya was one of my first shoots of the year with new talent from MIM, and it was such a beautiful way to kick off this new chapter of creative studio work.
One of my favourite parts of this shoot wasn’t just Anastasiya’s natural ability in front of the camera, but the support system she brought with her. Her mom, Anna, joined her in the studio, and the two of them had such a strong, warm energy together. You could immediately feel how proud Anna is of her daughter, and how much she genuinely enjoys being part of the process.
Anastasiya is a beautiful young model with MIM, and she has been passionate about modelling and fashion for most of her life. During our session, she shared stories of attending modelling camps as early as six years old, and it’s clear this has been a long-time dream and personal passion.
Watching her work in front of the camera was honestly impressive. She has a natural rhythm with posing, strong expression, and a confidence that feels effortless. You can tell she’s been practising and building her skills for years.
Even though Anastasiya already has an established portfolio, we decided to keep this session simple and clean. The goal was to create timeless studio portraits that highlight her versatility and presence without overcomplicating the styling.
Anna was amazing to have on set. She helped with wardrobe, offered creative suggestions, and even came up with a few unique posing ideas that added variety to the session. I genuinely love having parents involved, especially when they bring a calm, supportive energy like this. It creates a team atmosphere, and it makes the shoot feel fun and collaborative.
We originally planned to keep the session to one outfit, but we ended up switching to a second look for the full-length shots. The first top had a tendency to rise and create an awkward gap at the waist, so we adjusted wardrobe to keep the lines clean and ensure Anastasiya could move confidently without worrying about the outfit shifting. It was a simple change, but it made a big difference.
The shoot itself was quick and relaxed, about 45 minutes in studio, and it was such a refreshing experience. No complicated concept, no pressure, just a chance to create, connect, and capture something strong.
Near the end of the session, I asked Anna and Anastasiya if they’d be open to stepping in for a few portraits together. They were both completely game, and I’m so glad we did it. Those images feel especially meaningful, not only because they’re beautiful portraits, but because they document a real moment in time, a mother supporting her daughter as she steps deeper into something she’s passionate about.
After the shoot, Anastasiya left me the sweetest Google review, and I honestly couldn’t be more grateful. Words like this mean everything to me, especially when my goal is always to make clients feel comfortable, supported, and confident in front of the camera:
I had the BEST experience working with Angela! From the first second she greets you with a warm smile) She made the shoot feel so light and warm, even made delicious cupcakes for me and my mom🥹 I would love to work with her again and again, as not only she is a great person but an amazing professional at what she does!
Hearing feedback like this is exactly why I love what I do. Photography isn’t just about lighting and posing, it’s about creating an experience where people feel seen, safe, and encouraged. When someone leaves feeling genuinely happy and empowered, that’s the real win.
Sessions like this are a reminder of why I love photography so much. Every time I photograph someone new, I learn something, whether it’s a new pose, a new expression, or simply the way someone carries themselves. Shoots like this keep me inspired, keep me sharp, and always help strengthen the work I create for my paying clients as well.
Anastasiya was an absolute pleasure to photograph, and I’m excited to see where her modelling journey takes her.
And Anna, thank you for being such a wonderful presence in the studio. Your support and energy made this session even more special.
A special thank you as well to Fatima at MIM Models International Management for her support and for helping make this shoot possible.
To see more of my team’s work click the links below:
Anastasiya – model – https://www.instagram.com/miss_lazanya_/
MIM models – Talent Agency – https://www.instagram.com/mimmodels/
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