It’s time for another ‘Artist Spotlight’ series, with this month’s focus on Raisa Zwart, an inspiring travel and portrait photographer from the Netherlands. Raisa's journey of self-discovery and growth began through meaningful connections with fellow photographers, ultimately leading her to uncover her true passion. Raisa shoots with a medium format camera to ensure the highest quality photos, with an emphasis on timelessness.

Q: What initially drew you towards a career in law, and how did you discover your passion for photography?

A: Nothing to be completely honest. I just had no idea what I wanted to do, took a leap year and then when I still didn’t know, choose an option that was considered safe, and kind of broad enough to be able to choose different careers after graduating. I  never did graduate however, because photography set my heart on fire somewhere along the way. What began as a little hobby escalated into a deep love for creating. When I met more and more other photographers, some of which made it into a career, I  couldn’t deny it anymore: law had never been for me. I had finally found my passion, and it led me onto this amazing path of  self discovery, personal growth and a self confidence that makes me the creator that I am today. 

Q: What are some of your creative rituals or routines that help you get into the zone for a shoot?

A: Daily walks help me to keep looking. To see light, nature, stories. I sometimes create mood boards on Pinterest, but most of the  time it’s about creating a sort of mental shot list in my head, before heading into a shoot, or traveling to a destination.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who want to turn their passion into a profession?

A: First of all: go for it. Entrepreneurship is the very best thing that happened to me. It’s such a ride. There are ups, there are  downs, but if you keep your eyes on your dreams, and are willing to work for it: I believe you can do anything. Mindset stuff  aside: I think it’s super important to learn about marketing & goal setting. If you know how to set goals and work towards them + know how to do your own marketing: you’re ahead of 90% of the industry. These skills will get you far. Also: don’t forget to also  keep investing time and energy in your photography itself. Keep balancing the artist and the entrepreneur.  

Q: What elements do you think make a photograph truly stand out? 

A: That’s probably subjective. But to me: color, composition and story. I don’t really mind if a picture is technically perfect, or if you  used difficult techniques to get it. I want to feel something, and I want it to be aesthetically pleasing. 

Q: How do you balance the artistic and business sides of your photography career? 

A: It goes in seasons I think. Some seasons I am more focused on the business side, and other times on the artistic part. I do  think that for every creator: one of these will come naturally, and the other one requires more work. I tend to naturally focus on  the business side more, and have to actively remind myself to also focus on the artistic part: to keep the artist in me fulfilled. 

Q: What are your other passions or hobbies outside of photography? 

A: I love to surf!