I was fascinated by why we remember some photographs and forget others within seconds. Neuroaesthetics opened a door to understanding how our brains react to art—and how photographers can create images that truly captivate.
Ana Lyubich
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Ana Lyubich is redefining the art of photography with her innovative exploration of neuroaesthetics and a deep passion for macro photography. Her remarkable talent for capturing intricate, hidden worlds transforms the way we see the everyday, while her scientific approach uncovers the secrets behind why certain images stay with us long after we view them.
This episode takes you on an extraordinary journey through Ana’s creative life, from her beginnings in Kazakhstan and her move to New Zealand, to her development as a photographer and advocate for visual storytelling through her community, Excio.
We’ll explore how she combines the science of neuroaesthetics with her artistic instincts to create unforgettable images, how she’s using her platform to spotlight local talent, and why she believes photography has the power to connect us in profound ways. Ana also shares her mission to spark curiosity and passion in future generations through her workshops, reminding us that photography is for everyone, not just a select few.
Ana’s story is a testament to innovation, community, and the belief that art can transform how we see the world. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:
- How Ana’s study of neuroaesthetics is influencing her unique approach to photography.
- The inspiration behind her macro work that makes the overlooked extraordinary.
- Her efforts to create an inclusive photography community that champions authenticity over sterility.
- The role she plays in inspiring kids and young photographers to see photography as a meaningful and viable path.
Get ready to be inspired by Ana’s incredible fusion of science, art, and storytelling, and her mission to redefine what photography can achieve. We hope you enjoy this unforgettable episode, cheers!
Q: For those who may not be familiar with neuroaesthetics, could you break it down in an easy-to-digest way and explain how it’s useful in photography?
Ana: Absolutely, and that’s what I love to do because neuroaesthetics is a relatively new field of research. It’s about 20 years old and studies, in simple terms, how our brains react to art, which includes many forms like architecture, dancing, performance art, paintings, and photography. I was curious about why we remember some photographs and forget others within seconds. Neuroaesthetics helped me understand what makes certain images captivating and how photographers can implement that knowledge in their work.
Q: How do you incorporate the science of neuroaesthetics into your photography to make it more memorable?
Ana: There are lots of techniques photographers can use. For example, our brains react very quickly to visual triggers like bright colors or symmetry. These elements create an emotional reaction within the first 200 to 500 milliseconds, which determines whether we want to explore the image further. I also use principles like Gestalt, which focus on simplicity, repetition, and balance, to make my photographs more engaging. Another technique is creating an expectation violation—showing something unexpected in a photo, which makes people spend more time processing it and, ultimately, remembering it.
Q: What inspired you to start workshops for kids, and what do you hope to achieve through them?
Ana: One reason was realizing that many young people don’t see photography as a viable career option. I wanted to change that perception and show them that photography can be meaningful and impactful. We also focus on kids who need extra support, like those with ADHD or on the autism spectrum. Photography helps them communicate visually, even when they’re nonverbal. It’s amazing to see how transformative photography can be for these kids, allowing them to share their world with others in a way they couldn’t before.
Key Links and Mentions From the Episode
Ana Lyubich’s Instagram
Follow Ana on Instagram to explore her stunning macro photography, learn about her workshops, and stay updated on her latest projects.
Visit Ana’s Instagram
Excio Community
Ana’s photography platform and community that celebrates authentic and emotional storytelling through images. It also provides a space for photographers to share their work and connect with like-minded creatives.
Visit Excio
People Mentioned
Ana’s Family
Ana’s journey began with her desire to share the beauty of New Zealand with her family back in Kazakhstan, sparking her passion for photography and storytelling.
Tools & Techniques
Neuroaesthetics in Photography
Ana applies principles of neuroaesthetics, such as visual triggers and Gestalt principles, to create captivating and memorable photographs.
Macro Photography
Ana’s expertise in macro photography allows her to reveal the intricate beauty of the natural world, showcasing details often overlooked in daily life.
Projects & Opportunities
Photography Library
Ana’s Excio photography library offers a fair compensation model for photographers, providing an alternative to traditional stock platforms.
Workshops for Adults
In addition to her work with kids, Ana runs workshops for adults, teaching techniques to make their photographs more captivating and impactful.
Charity for Kids
Ana’s charity focuses on empowering children, especially those with special needs, through the transformative power of photography.
Places and Locations
Kazakhstan
Ana’s home country, where her love for photography first began.
New Zealand
The stunning landscapes of New Zealand inspired Ana’s creative journey and became the foundation for her photography community and projects.
Key Themes Discussed
The Science of Neuroaesthetics
Ana explores how our brains react to art and photography, uncovering the secrets behind what makes certain images unforgettable.
Authenticity in Photography
Ana emphasizes the importance of creating authentic, emotional images that resonate deeply with viewers.
Empowering the Next Generation
Through her workshops and charity, Ana is dedicated to inspiring young photographers and fostering a love for visual storytelling.
Building Community
Ana’s Excio platform and photography journal highlight the value of collaboration and connection within the photography world.
The Transformative Power of Photography
Ana believes photography has the ability to connect us to each other, nature, and ourselves in profound and meaningful ways.
Impressive.
There is something in her images that the brain captures and admires but is a tad out of reach of expressing verbally. I see portions out of focus and there amongst that is a very sharply-focused content. That content seems to me to a bit unusual either because of what it is or that within it is a sparkle of beauty. Whatever – more power to Ms. Lyubich.