International Women's Day: Meet Sacha Stejko

To celebrate International Women's Day 2022 we spoke to inspirational Canon Master and photographer, Sacha Stejko

New Zealand-based Sacha Stejko is a photographer who creates beautiful, insightful portraits, ranging from storytelling to explosive action. The genuine connections she forms with the people she photographs causes them to feel relaxed and comfortable, allowing their true personalities to shine through.

“I was always fascinated with how images could have such an impact on the viewer. Once I picked up the camera in high school I was hooked, and the rest is history.”

Canon Master, Sacha Stejko

Shot on Canon EOS R5 35mm F1.4

How did you begin your photography career

I started off shooting actor’s headshots which taught me a lot; it taught me how to work closely with people and the fundamentals of portraiture.

As any young photographer I picked up jobs where I could, shooting events and friend’s look books. Then opportunities would come up where I would shoot content for different brands, and it all just developed from there. My work was evolving and I was shooting more and more commercial work.

Five years ago I signed to my agent, IDC and I have been focusing on advertising work, both in stills and motion.

Do you have any significant photographic influences or styles?

Yes so many, but they continue to change as my work grows. At the moment, I am really loving the work of Carlos Serrao and Marcus Eriksson.

Shot on Canon EOS R5 35mm F1.4

What issues have you faced as a female (if any) photographer.

I started shooting when I was quite young so I definitely noticed an attitude towards me and people wouldn’t take me seriously, or they would underestimate me. I really felt like I had to prove myself through my work.

Changes you have seen of the gender split

I have definitely noticed more women working across the board. I am very grateful to be part of a collective here called Women’s work, creating a platform for Female photographers and also raising awareness around the gender bias we are still facing in the industry.

The industry has started to change, by including more females in their roster. It will take time for the industry to become a level playing field, but it’s all about awareness.\The more visible we make ourselves and our work, the better.

What things could the industry and fellow photographers do to break the gender bias in photography.

The industry has started to change, by including more females in their roster. It will take time for the industry to become a level playing field, but it’s all about awareness. The more visible we make ourselves and our work, the better.

Shot on Canon EOS R5 35mm F1.4

Do you have any advice to up and coming female photographers

One of my favourite pieces of advice is from film director John Cassavetes: “when you are young you should go to all the places that make you feel uncomfortable and prove yourself, because one day you are going to have to prove yourself”.

What other photographers do you think are doing great work?

Sasha Samsonova, who is also a Ukrainian female photographer, works in LA and shoots primarily on film. Her work is really striking.

What's in your Canon kit? Why have you chosen this gear to be in your primary kit?

I love working with primes, the 85mm has to be one of my favourites, along with the 50mm and 35mm. I love the way the focus falls away softly on a prime, I am all about texture and prime lenses give me the control to show the viewer what I see.

See more of Sacha’s work here

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