My Story
01/02/2020 2025-11-11 14:08My Story
My Story
Hi, I’m Martina, your go-to corporate, lifestyle, and branding photographer.
Just a few months ago, my life looked very different. It was almost perfect, except… deep down, I felt unfulfilled. I think I always knew why.
After years of studying law, earning both a Law degree and a Master’s, I went on to qualify as a solicitor at a law firm in London, a career many aspire to. I felt incredibly privileged, and for a while, I believed I was living the dream.
But the truth is, it didn’t feel like my dream. The more I tried to convince myself to give it a bit more time, especially since the job gave me financial stability and the freedom to travel, the more I felt I was in the wrong environment. I kept asking myself is this what I signed up to do for the next 50 or so years? Is it too late to change directions now? What would it feel like if I take ownership of my time and do something that is genuinely fulfilling and inspiring?
Photography has been my passion since childhood.
I remember receiving a film camera for my 10th birthday from my grandparents. I used to bring it everywhere with me, but each film contained approximately 30 photos, so I reserved it for those special moments that I wanted to remember forever and the people I loved most. Those photos were not edited, they had no filters, just people and raw, honest emotions. Each photo holds a memory that I will always treasure deep in my heart.
Fast forward to 2022, I took the leap and enrolled in a professional photography course. In April 2024, I received my Diploma of Professional Photography from The Photography Institute, which I was very proud of. This made me realise that I did not have to stay on the path I was on, I could envision a different future, one where my work aligned with my passion.
By 2025, I made one of the biggest decisions of my life. I stepped away from the legal profession. I realised my dreams were bigger than sitting behind a desk for 8-10 hours a day filling out forms. This is when I re-evaluated my intentions and goals and rediscovered my passion for storytelling through photography. My husband’s support meant a lot to me and I decided to let go of my fear, have faith, and pursue my dream career in photography.
Now, I combine my corporate background with my passion for photography to help others bring their personal and professional stories to life through beautiful, authentic imagery. I’d be delighted to help capture your journey too, so that you can strengthen your brand identity and build stronger connections with your audience.
Aside from working, you would probably find me planning and organising my next trip abroad. I absolutely love exploring the world and I travel for the purpose of experiencing different cultures, cuisines, and traditions. Previously, I have been to Zanzibar, Egypt, Cape Verde, Iceland, and to many other countries across Europe.
I also enjoy baking cakes and spending as much time in nature as possible, which allows me to recharge and stay active.
I also host photography classes in Nottingham and Mansfield on variety of genres, including beginner-friendly sessions. If you are interested, please just reach out and I will send you the latest event details.
I am based in Nottingham, but happy to travel anywhere in the UK for shoots.
Whether you are just starting out or have been in business for years, I would love to connect with you and hear your story.
All of your support means a lot to me, thank you for being part of this journey!
Martina Ignatova
Let's chat and discuss your ideas for making the best photoshoot
What I Truly Believe In
Inclusion
Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. I work with people from all walks of life, and I want every client to feel empowered to chase their dreams, no matter their background. Respect and kindness go both ways, and I am here to create a space where everyone feels welcome.
Authenticity
I believe in keeping things real, always. When you work with me, you can be yourself, no filters needed (in photos or in conversation). I will lightly edit images to remove things like spots or dark circles under the eyes, but I won’t change your natural body shape. My goal is to celebrate you as you are, because that’s where real beauty lives.
Integrity
Honesty and trust are at the heart of everything I do. I’m committed to clear communication, doing what I say I will, and showing up with care and accountability. I want to build long-lasting relationships with the people I work with, not just take photos and walk away.
Community
Supporting and connecting with my local creative community is so important to me. I love attending local events hosted by other artists, and I regularly run photography workshops for anyone who wants to grow their skills in a fun, supportive environment.
Service
Great photography is just one part of what I offer. I also care deeply about giving my clients a positive, professional experience from start to finish. Your trust means everything to me, and I’ll always do my best to honour it.
