We Don’t Teach Photography
We Build Photographers
We Build Talent. We Build You.
From Eastern Europe to New York.
Built Through Vision, Not Privilege
We started in 2013 – not in Manhattan, but in post-crisis Ukraine, with one camera, a rented studio, and a wild belief that photography can change lives.
In a country full of limitations, we focused on possibilities. We trained creators, not technicians. Helped students build careers, not just galleries.
Over the years, our community grew – across borders, time zones, and industries. Today, our graduates shoot for Michelin-starred restaurants, publish books, run studios, and create visual stories that sell.
In 2025, we launched New York Photo Academy – to bring our proven system to the creative capital of the world.
Because talent has no zip code. And the next big photographer? Might be you.
Creative careers aren’t a dream.
They’re a Decision
We’re here for those who do. Those who are tired of “maybe someday” and are ready to turn talent into income.
Our mission is simple: to educate photographers who get hired. We don’t waste time with trivia and vague inspiration. We give you skills, structure, strategy – and a proven system that works in the real world.
Because talent alone doesn’t build a career. Action does. And we’ll teach you how to take action – step by step, frame by frame.
No Theory Dumps. No Guesswork. Just What Actually Works.
We believe people don’t need more information – they need transformation.
That’s why our method is built around doing, not just watching.
Each course is a mix of short, clear lessons, real assignments, feedback from pros, and structured milestones that move you forward. You’ll learn to shoot with purpose, build your portfolio from day one, and get real about turning creativity into income.
We don’t teach generic “camera stuff.”
We teach food photographers, product shooters, content creators – people with vision and goals.
No matter where you’re starting from, we’ll show you what to focus on, what to skip, and how to get results that clients actually want to pay for.
We Don’t Promise Magic. We Teach Mastery.
While others sell hype, we build skills.
While others focus on likes, we focus on long-term growth.
While others teach “how to shoot,” we show you how to earn.
At New York Photo Academy, every lesson moves you toward a real result – whether it’s building a paid portfolio, pitching your first client, or creating visuals that actually sell products.
We don’t teach you how to “be creative.” You already are.
We teach you how to turn that creativity into a career.
That means: – Learning how to shoot like a pro with whatever gear you have
– Creating content that brands actually want
– Understanding how to market yourself, price your work, and handle clients
– And building a system you can grow with, not burn out from
You won’t just leave with skills – you’ll leave with clarity, direction, and proof that you’re already a working photographer.
Real Work. Real Students.
Built by Creators. Driven by Results.
Our academy was founded by Alex Slyadnev – an internationally published food photographer, author, and creative director with over 17 years of experience and clients ranging from Michelin-starred chefs to global brands.
But this school isn’t about him. It’s about you.
And that’s exactly why he’s not here to talk at you – he’s here to guide you, push you, and make sure you leave with work you’re proud to sign your name under.
You’ll also learn from a hand-picked team of photographers, editors, and creative producers – people who don’t just “know the theory,” but live the industry every day.
No gatekeeping. No fluff. Just straight-up, professional mentorship.
Because real growth doesn’t come from watching others.
It comes from being supported while you do it yourself.
We don’t just teach – we build a global circle of creatives who grow together.
Our students live in New York, Kyiv, Berlin, Warsaw, Toronto, and way beyond. What unites them isn’t geography – it’s mindset. Everyone here came to create something real, and we make sure no one does it alone.
Inside the Academy, you’ll find:
- Ongoing peer support
- A private community space for feedback, connection, and wins
- Real conversations – not just emojis
- Challenges, meetups, and collabs across borders
You’ll never feel like you’re learning in a vacuum.
Because your growth accelerates when you’re surrounded by people who get it.
Your Creative Career Starts the Moment You Decide It Does.
You’ve scrolled. You’ve dreamed. You’ve seen what’s possible.
Now it’s time to take the first step – and finally start creating the life (and work) you actually want.
We’ll guide you, challenge you, and help you build real results – not just pretty pictures.
You don’t need permission. You just need direction. And we’ve got that part covered.