Behind Zołotar Photography
Heart in the Old Country...
My name is Madeline and I am fascinated with all things related to folk culture. I have been told my entire life that I am an old soul and have more than once referenced myself as an old Babushka, so it shouldn't be any surprise that I am in love with traditional folk culture. Even though I was born here in Canada my heart truly feels like it belongs in the old country, which I imagine came from the influence of my grandparents. My grandparents came to this country in the early 50's from Poland, the area's of which are now part of Belarus and Ukraine, as well as Germany. I was incredibly fortunate to grow up with the traditions of both sides of my heritage, as I know for many immigrant families it was lost over time. My culture and where my family comes from plays an immense role in my everyday life from the food I eat to the music I listen to, and of course to the photographs I take.
My Work
My two loves of photography and folk culture came together for my thesis in my final year in Sheridan College's Honours Bachelor of Photography program. During my time in the program, a guest lecturer once said "You have to shoot what you love" and this gave me the confidence to start shooting people representing their folk culture. For the thesis my goal was to shoot young women, who similar to me, were holding on to their family's roots in an ever modernizing world. It was a fantastic feeling to connect with these ladies and see them so surprised that someone was taking an interest in their culture.
While doing my shoots, the individuals involved often ask if I myself do folk dance or if I am from the same background as them, and unless they are Polish my answer is "No" to both. My answer? I am simply passionate about the traditional aspects of cultures and feel they should be cherished and never forgotten.
If you are like me and passionate about your culture, let's connect! It would be my pleasure to shoot you, your friends, family or significant other in your cultural attire and help show off just how proud you are about where you come from.
Based in the Greater Toronto Area
Feel free to contact for any inquires!
Email: zolotarphotography@gmail.com
Instagram: @zolotarphotography