In a world where fashion often unfolds on the runways, street fashion photographers have a unique lens into the dynamic intersection of culture, style, and authenticity. For this artist, who began her journey with a simple camera at Milan Fashion Week, photography has evolved from a passion into a profession filled with energy, emotion, and storytelling.
In this interview, Anastasia, known on Instagram as thestreetpie, shares her journey, the joys and challenges of her craft, and how the unique energy of each city inspires her work. Join us as we delve into her world, where through her lens, every moment becomes a story, and street style comes alive in unexpected ways.
What draws you to street fashion photography, and how did you get started in this field?Becoming a photographer was never my goal; I always treated photography as a hobby. Everything changed in 2013 when I was studying at Marangoni in Milan. I attended Fashion Week for the first time, brought my camera, and took my first photos. I remember forgetting to insert the memory card on the first day, but I wasn’t upset, I was so captivated by the atmosphere. By 2018, I realized there were too many “signs” pointing me toward turning my hobby into a profession. One pivotal moment was when American Vogue purchased one of my photographs. At that time, I was simply running an Instagram account to share my work, and they found me and reached out.
When showcasing such diverse styles in your photos, what captures your attention first: the subject, the outfit, or the general atmosphere of the street? Or is it a combination of all three?
While I work at Fashion Weeks and focus on trends and style, storytelling has always been the most important aspect of photography for me. As cliché as it may sound, I see photography as an art form rather than just a way to showcase trends. I aim to tell a story about the atmosphere or the person I’m capturing, how they’re rushing to a show, the chaotic crowds, or the ever-changing surroundings. Of course, the subject and style are essential, but sometimes I photograph seemingly “unremarkable” outfits to convey the atmosphere.
Street style is often influenced by culture and location. What cities inspire you? Does the unique style and culture influence your approach to capturing street fashion and emotions?
I love people-watching and have a special passion for street photography. At Fashion Weeks, people often wear planned outfits to promote brands or projects, and their everyday style might be completely different. I, however, love authenticity, style should shine even beyond street style. My favorite city is Milan, where I’ve lived for over ten years. Only recently have I started seeing it in a new light, discovering the diversity in style that changes not only from city to city but also from one neighborhood to another.
Fashion Weeks bring so many different looks and trends to the streets. How do you manage to capture it all? How does the energy of Fashion Week influence the way you shoot street style? Does your schedule change during this time?
During Fashion Week, the schedule is so hectic there’s barely time to eat. In addition to covering shows, backstage, and street style, there are also events, influencer collaborations, brand shoots, and advertisements. My day usually starts around 8 a.m. and ends late at night, sometimes as late as 2 or 3 a.m. And there’s still photo editing to be done! Fashion Week is incredibly stressful, with tight deadlines and time constraints. It requires not only exceptional professional skills but also stamina and, most importantly, good health.
How would you describe the fashion style of the people you capture on the streets? Are there any common threads or surprising elements you’ve noticed across different cities or cultures?
Milan loves to show off—with more colors, luxury bags, and jewelry that are proudly “taken for a walk.” Paris has less color and more refinement but also a touch of snobbery. I both love and dislike that. Copenhagen is all about ultimate relaxation and comfort. Tokyo and Seoul have their own unique, local styles, often detached from global trends. I’d take a little something from each city.
How has capturing street style changed the way you view fashion and the people you photograph?
I’ve become faster at identifying which details to focus on, what might be most interesting in a look, and how best to photograph it, what angle or accent to choose. Over a decade of photographing at Fashion Weeks has taught me to distinguish genuine taste from an outfit put together purely for the sake of street style.
How do you build a connection with your subjects to capture authentic moments? What do you look for in a person’s expression or body language that makes a moment feel genuine to you?
It depends on the person, sometimes I’ll ask them to keep moving and not stop, while other times I’ll suggest they stand still and, for example, light a cigarette. A lot also depends on the brief and the client. However, when I shoot during Fashion Week, my main goal is always to remain invisible, capturing the authentic stories unfolding on the streets rather than staged poses for a magazine.
Your photos capture such a unique blend of fashion and emotion. What message or feeling do you aim to communicate through your street fashion photography?
The key is always storytelling. Yes, an outfit might be trendy and visually appealing, but people will soon forget about it, they’ll only remember the brands it featured. However, if the shot tells a deeper story, viewers are more likely to pause and engage with it. A well-told story is always captivating.
What are some of the most memorable moments or encounters you’ve had while photographing on the streets, and what makes them special to you? Can you show us?
One of my most memorable moments was photographing Céline Dion at a Valentino show in Paris. When she left the show, surrounded by bodyguards and hundreds of photographers, I managed to squeeze through the crowd (thanks to my small stature!) and, without even looking through the viewfinder, snapped a few shots with my arm outstretched. I still remember the euphoria I felt when I realized the photos turned out great.
What are some of the most challenging aspects of photographing strangers on the street? Are there any misconceptions about street photography you’d like to address?
When new photographers start shooting on the streets, they often feel like everyone is watching them. In reality, that’s not the case, people are busy with their own lives, rushing, talking on the phone, or lost in thought. For me, the biggest challenge was overcoming the feeling that everyone was focused on me and my camera.
Are there specific places in Milan that feel like a muse for you, where the fashion and vibe inspire you? Or do you capture street-style moments as part of your daily routine?
Photography has become such a natural part of my life that I’m always taking pictures, everywhere, all the time. I often bring my camera, but I also shoot with my phone. The key is to stay focused and not hesitate to capture the stories you want. In Milan, I recommend stepping away from the center and the so-called Quadrilatero della Moda to immerse yourself in the “real Milan” in neighborhoods like Porta Venezia, Corso Magenta, or Porta Ticinese.
You’ve worked in so many urban environments. Is there a particular city or place you dream of photographing street fashion in, and what draws you to it?
I’ve never been to New York Fashion Week, and I think it will be my next big adventure.
Interviewed by Erin Beatrice Gregor