Radostina Boseva is a modern Film Photographer with a touch of nostalgia, based in San Francisco. Drawn towards modernism with a love for all things historical, femininity and edginess, Radostina Boseva prefers to think of herself as a Historian but with a film camera.
Tell us about your business!
It all started with an old shoebox hidden in my mothers house, where I discovered her wedding images. I was probably around 5 and I vividly remember the excitement I felt for having the opportunity to sneak into my parents’ world when they were younger and so much in love. And then the overwhelming disappointment that hit me when I discovered that my parents’ wedding images were taken in the exact same studio, with the exact same poses and the exact same light, like every other married couple in our town.
It didn't feel right because my parents were special to me. They deserved those special images, that are custom crafted for them, that are honest, but editorial looking. And I deserved those images too.
Ever since I built my career around that from being photo stylist in magazines to a graphic designer and film photographer. I put all the knowledge I have to serve one purpose - to craft a unique experience for my couples and to photograph what is meaningful for them through my artistic eye and my film.
What would you like couples to know about Radostina Boseva Photography?
As I said my goal here is to not do the same images over and over again, but images that you can see yourself and you can find yourself. Because people are different, they love different things, they love differently - they even hold hands differently. And since this is your story, I think you should be in it.
I have the same exact approach with portraits and with events even. I put extra effort into getting to know my clients and what is important to them - the people, the sentimental objects, the stories, everything matters. Then I use all my secret tools - analog film, reading the light, and the room, documenting moments, and applying my photo stylist skills when needed, to make the story more complete.
Where are you based?
During most of the year, I’m based in Northern California - San Francisco, and I spend a few months in Southern Europe, where I’m originally from.
Do you travel for weddings?
Absolutely. I actually truly believe that the best weddings happen when they are a destination for everybody. This way people can get away from their everyday and be fully present.
How would you describe your style?
A friend of mine actually described my style once as a juxtaposition: I’m drawn towards modernism and a love for old things history, femininity, and edginess, I prefer to think of myself as a Historian (I actually have a Master's in History), but with a film camera, for couples.
In Medieval times the Byzantine Emperors always had entrusted historians to preserve their legacies through storytelling. I try to do the same for my couples and their families. And I also add more into that nostalgic feeling of mine, through my film photography.
What is your most memorable career moment?
It is not a prize, an award, or a publication. I believe the most memorable moment for me happened with one of my very first couples. They were in love for 30 years, living a happy life. My groom was 70 years old when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. As the diseases progressed, they decided to get married in an intimate backyard ceremony. This is when I realized how important all these memories are for them. I feel so honored to be there for them.
What inspires you?
Human kindness and intelligence. Nature, Scandinavian interior design, fashion and music, cinematic movies and good composition, also damn good graphic design, and a whole bunch of Australian interior stylists I follow.
How would you describe your working style?
I’m a total chameleon, or should I say read the room person? I can give guidance when is needed, but most of the time I just don’t want to be the director. There are other people who are main characters in these movies.
Do you shoot digitally, on film, or both?
I shoot both, but honestly, I found the biggest pleasure in shooting film. But I understand how easy life can be with digital and use that media when needed.
Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?
Yes. No wedding is alike, so after a short call with a potential client - I create a custom proposal, with one of two options for them to choose.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
It is always the new one! Either it is the coffee table book with a modern design, or a box with instant film images I photograph on their wedding day. Usually, the latest product is my favorite. I put a lots of thought into everything, and intentionality is so important for me.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
I will say to the end of the world! But honestly anywhere in USA and Europe. Especially Eastern Europe (Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Romania) and Italy, since this is my area of expertise.
Who is your dream client?
Sofia Coppola, Lady Ga Ga, and Kate Moss. I’m a big fan of the 90’s so anyone who is important for that decade. Also maybe Nina Dobrev or Maria Bakalova, because they are Bulgarians just like me. We have a whole bunch of cool East Orthodox traditions, so that would be so much fun!
How do you select music for your films?
On selected occasions, Ido capture Super 8mm film and I always asked the couples for their own preferences. It is for them, after all.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Create an experience that matches your vibes. Also please hire a wedding planner or designer, if you would like to be fully present on your wedding day, you definitely need one.
