Sarah Lessler
Irina Kazaridi is an accomplished fine art photographer based in the South of France. She graduated from the prestigious Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan. Her refined visual language and elegant aesthetic have led to collaborations with brands such as Liaigre, Christie’s, and Four Seasons. Her work has appeared on the covers of leading equestrian and lifestyle publications, earning her international recognition.
Irina’s photography has been exhibited across Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. Notable solo shows include “Horses,” held at the iconic Meydan Hotel in Dubai during the World Cup, and “Poetry in Motion,” presented at VIP events during the Longines Global Champions Tour in Monaco and Miami. Her photographs are part of private collections and are exhibited in prestigious galleries worldwide.
Horses are the heart of your work. What led you to focus on horses as your primary subjects?
To me, the horse embodies beauty, grace, and quiet strength. I see it as a living sculpture—timeless and pure. I’m drawn to the endless variation in form and movement, always searching for that perfect, unrepeatable moment. Their presence feels naturally at home in interior spaces, which is where my art belongs.
Can you tell us about how your career as a photographer began and how it has grown into what it is today?
When I moved to the South of France, I was deeply inspired by the seascapes of the Mediterranean. For some time, I focused on that natural beauty and held several exhibitions. Eventually, I began searching for a new subject, and quite by chance, I came across polo in Saint- Tropez. That’s where I encountered the horse for the first time, and it became the beginning of a new artistic journey. Over the years, I’ve photographed polo around the world, followed by show jumping, dressage, and wild horses in the natural reserve of the Camargue. Today, I continue to work in this unique region, creating personal journeys and photographing for my new book.
What are your criteria for selecting pieces for your collections?
I prefer black and white, monochrome, soft beige, and brown tones, as they integrate effortlessly into different interior styles. I’m drawn to the individual beauty and presence of each horse. Every image must meet the highest standards of quality, suitable for large-scale prints. Aesthetics are essential. The photograph should radiate harmony and positive emotion, becoming a sculptural object for quiet contemplation.
Can you explain your collaborative process with interior designers and what you enjoy most about having your work displayed in private collections and homes around the globe?
My work is highly design-oriented, making it popular among interior designers worldwide. I’ve had inspiring collaborations with Christian Liaigre, who is a true muse for me; my collection is deeply influenced by his style. My photographs are used to enhance interiors across the globe, bringing elegance and character to both modern and classic spaces.
Where do you draw new inspiration and motivation for your latest projects?
For many years, I’ve been photographing in the Camargue, a natural reserve in Provence, where I’m currently working on my new book. I’m also the creator of tailored trips into this unique landscape, guiding guests through herds of wild white horses running through water against breathtaking scenery.
How do you hope your art and collections impact people?
I want my art to give people a sense of balance, purity, positive energy, strength, and calm—the emotions one feels when connected to a horse. My photographs are meant to carry this uplifting energy into people’s lives.
Is there a breed that is particularly inspiring to photograph?
I find beauty in every breed, from polo ponies with shaved manes to dressage and show jumping horses with braided manes, and, of course, the wild white Camargue horses flowing in the wind. I love them all.
Do you have a preference for shooting on location or in a studio?
I never shoot in a studio. The magic of photography happens anywhere, under any conditions. My role is to always be ready to capture the perfect moment. I rely mainly on natural sunlight, which gives the most authentic and beautiful effect to the human eye.
Could you describe your recent book project, Horses: Poetry in Motion? What does this book mean to you?
Horses: Poetry in Motion is a premium large-format coffee table book created as a limited edition for collectors. Each copy is made to order using high-end materials and craftsmanship. The book features a curated collection of equine portraits—not just photographs but design-driven, fine art compositions that reflect the beauty and soul of the horse. It also includes portraits of prominent horsemen from the worlds of polo, show jumping, and beyond. This project is very personal to me, as it brings together years of artistic exploration and my passion for the horse as a subject of timeless elegance.
To view this featured gallery in the July/August digital magazine and read the rest of the issue, click here. To see more of EQ Living’s featured artists and galleries, click here. To visit Irina’s website for more information, click here.