MILESTONES IN PHOTOGRAPHY 

Lali’s journey in photography began with a surprising twist. She entered a school photo contest alongside a friend, finishing in second place while her friend claimed first. Seven years later, that very friend revealed that the winning photo was actually Lali’s. This unexpected confession fueled Lali’s passion, and she started capturing scenes on her phone in Bratsk, Russia, where she lived at the time. Returning to Baku was another pivotal moment. The city felt vast and unfamiliar, helping her see photography as a form of solace amidst the challenges of relocating and leaving behind her familiar surroundings. 

For her 18th birthday, her father gifted her a professional camera, enabling her to explore portrait photography more seriously. She began taking portraits of people, eventually earning her first payment, which—though modest—brought immense joy. This initial step into professional photography opened new creative horizons for her, igniting her determination to grow in the craft and seek inspiration with each click of her camera. 

“When my mother came to realize that I was good and that I would connect with the photo of my life, she took my camera away. She believes that nobody would consider a photographer to be a wife.” 

Despite the temporary obstacle, the young student continued looking for any opportunities to film. At the earliest opportunity, she was hired to work in SMM. Her interest in documentary photography grew steadily over time. Under a social project open call, Lali was selected among five girls to participate, choosing to address the sensitive topic of sexual violence against young girls. Under the mentorship of renowned photographer Rena Effendi, Lali's understanding of photography took a transformative leap. Reflecting on her experience, she shares, “Over just three mentor calls, each lasting about an hour, my entire perception of photography changed. I never knew it could be like this.” Rena’s advice on sensitive storytelling made a deep impact: “Violence doesn’t need to be shown literally. Sometimes, an image of the place itself can tell a powerful story.”A pivotal moment came when Rena asked to see images Lali had initially discarded. To her surprise, Rena saw beauty and significance in these overlooked shots, choosing them as some of the most evocative in Lali’s portfolio. This lesson profoundly deepened her connection to art photography, teaching her to capture raw emotion and unseen narratives. Since then, Lali has consistently exhibited her work in social projects, participated in numerous competitions, and even gained recognition through interviews in prominent outlets like The Guardian. 

For Lali, Masalli is a city nestled in the Lenkoran lowland of southeastern Azerbaijan—holds a unique, almost mystical significance. She describes it as her “place of power,” where inspiration flows naturally: “I never have a focused shoot in Masala, with a clear mission to shoot. Once I get there, everything happens by itself. And I always enjoy it; this is my place.” 

Had she not pursued photography, Lali imagines she might have become a director of photography, a role she already embodies in part. “I love Eastern culture: movies, music that accompanies me when I shoot or draw,” she says, noting how this music stirs profound emotions within her, shifting her inner rhythm entirely. 

"Baku is unique among cities because it feels truly native—authentic and vibrant," Lali describes. The people and events here are constantly surprising. You wander downtown, and there's your grandma selling lemons from Lenkora. I often think, ‘Only in Baku could something like this happen.’" 

Despite challenges, Lali continues to grow as a photographer, using her work as a means of storytelling and perception-shifting. One of her essential books, Photography as Contemporary Art by Charlotte Cotton, introduced her to influential photographers like Nan Goldin, Céline van Balen, and Jeff Wall, which she recommends for  all kind of photographers.