Real people. Real light. Real stories.
Vira Zolotarova
Photographer with a medical degree
Based in Ghent, Belgium
Photographer with a medical degree
Based in Ghent, Belgium
Portfolio
People, places, and the stories they carry.
About Vera_Zo
Everyone knows me as a doctor, but photography has always been a part of me. From my very first camera in school to the Nikon my husband later gifted me, photography has been quietly following me through every stage of life.
Medicine taught me how to save lives. Photography taught me how to see their beauty.
For years, my medical career took all of my time, and somewhere along the way, I forgot about this dream. But when I returned to photography, it brought back inspiration, emotion, and a part of myself I had lost.
Now, I want to contribute not only to the health of the body, but also to the health of the soul. I believe photography heals — it helps people see themselves, accept themselves, and recognize their own beauty and uniqueness.
Welcome to my new life and my new page.
Medicine taught me how to save lives. Photography taught me how to see their beauty.
For years, my medical career took all of my time, and somewhere along the way, I forgot about this dream. But when I returned to photography, it brought back inspiration, emotion, and a part of myself I had lost.
Now, I want to contribute not only to the health of the body, but also to the health of the soul. I believe photography heals — it helps people see themselves, accept themselves, and recognize their own beauty and uniqueness.
Welcome to my new life and my new page.
How we work together
Simple. Relaxed. Built around you.
First conversation
We talk about you — your story, your comfort, what you'd love to remember. No pressure, just a chat.
Getting ready
I'll guide you on what to wear and what to expect. You just need to show up as yourself.
The shoot
Relaxed, unhurried, honest. I create space where you can forget about the camera.
Selection
I carefully choose the frames that best tell your story — quality over quantity.
Editing
Thoughtful retouching that enhances — without erasing who you are.
Questions you're probably thinking about
Honest answers. No fine print.
Katie:
Do I need to know how to pose?
Photographer:
Not at all.
Most of my clients are not models. I guide you naturally throughout the session. What matters is not the pose, but your presence.
Most of my clients are not models. I guide you naturally throughout the session. What matters is not the pose, but your presence.
Katie:
How long does a session last?
Photographer:
Usually between 1–2 hours.
However, I don’t work by the clock — I work for the result and the feeling.
However, I don’t work by the clock — I work for the result and the feeling.
Katie:
How should I prepare?
Photographer:
- Choose 2–3 outfits
- Avoid small busy patterns
- Get good rest
- Don’t experiment with new skincare right before the shoot
Katie:
Do you help with styling?
Photographer:
Yes.
We discuss colors, mood, and overall aesthetic in advance. I can provide recommendations and references if needed.
We discuss colors, mood, and overall aesthetic in advance. I can provide recommendations and references if needed.
Katie:
Where does the shoot take place?
Photographer:
In a studio, outdoors, or in an interior space — depending on the concept.
For artistic projects, I select locations that enhance the story.
For artistic projects, I select locations that enhance the story.
Katie:
How many photos will I receive?
Photographer:
You receive carefully selected and professionally edited images (the number depends on the package).
I do not deliver unedited raw files — only the final artistic result.
I do not deliver unedited raw files — only the final artistic result.
Katie:
When will the photos be ready?
Photographer:
Usually within 7–14 days.
For larger or exhibition projects — according to an agreed schedule.
For larger or exhibition projects — according to an agreed schedule.
Katie:
Do you retouch the photos?
Photographer:
Yes, but naturally and delicately.
You should look like yourself — alive and authentic.
You should look like yourself — alive and authentic.
Katie:
Can I use the photos for publication?
Photographer:
Yes.
Commercial use is discussed separately.
I always credit my work when publishing.
Commercial use is discussed separately.
I always credit my work when publishing.
Katie:
Can I gift a photoshoot?
Photographer:
Yes, gift certificates are available.
It’s not just a gift — it’s an experience that lasts.
It’s not just a gift — it’s an experience that lasts.
Katie:
What if I feel uncomfortable in front of the camera?
Photographer:
That’s completely normal.
Almost everyone says that at first.
After 10–15 minutes, you stop thinking about the camera — and start feeling yourself.
Almost everyone says that at first.
After 10–15 minutes, you stop thinking about the camera — and start feeling yourself.
Katie:
What if I feel uncomfortable in front of the camera?
Photographer:
That’s completely normal.
Almost everyone says that at first.
After 10–15 minutes, you stop thinking about the camera — and start feeling yourself.
Almost everyone says that at first.
After 10–15 minutes, you stop thinking about the camera — and start feeling yourself.
A glimpse into the work
Every image here was once just a person standing in front of a camera. Then something happened.
Let’s Create Something Beautiful
If you’d like to book a photo session, ask a question, or share an idea for a future shoot, fill out the form below. I’ll contact you soon to discuss the details.
