‘You can invent absolutely everything’: Yaroslavl woman builds business on AI photoshoots

In recent months, photos created using neural networks have been rapidly gaining popularity on social media. Artificial intelligence technologies have advanced to the point where such images are increasingly indistinguishable from real photos, and virtual photoshoots are gradually becoming an alternative to traditional shooting.

We spoke with AI photographer Anastasia Belyaeva from Yaroslavl Oblast about the new trend. How much do photos generated by neural networks cost, why are they in demand, and can they replace live photoshoots — in the material from 76.RU.

‘The main thing is imagination’

Anastasia Belyaeva grew up in Poshekhonye, Yaroslavl Oblast, but now lives in Cherepovets. There, she is raising three sons. Anastasia«s husband is on the special military operation. Largely thanks to his support, she started doing AI photoshoots.

‘It all started when my husband came on leave before the New Year. We decided to order photos generated using artificial intelligence. We really liked the result,’ says Anastasia. ‘My husband noticed that I was interested in image generation through ChatGPT, and suggested I take professional training. He paid for the courses, and I began gradually mastering this field. Now I continue to hone my AI skills.’

At the end of 2025, Anastasia completed the training and immediately started practicing. Thanks to promotion on social media, she got her first orders for AI photoshoots.

How an AI photoshoot works

To generate images, Anastasia asks clients to send several real photos where the face is clearly visible. This is necessary for the neural network to accurately read the features and characteristics of appearance. As a rule, customers come with a ready idea for the future shoot.

‘Often, girls ask for AI photoshoots in the style of studio photography. Many are not yet accustomed to this format and worry that the processing will be noticeable. But in practice, such images look harmonious and natural,’ explains Anastasia.

The process of creating photos is not as fast as it might seem. Each frame can take about 20 minutes.

Often, families of servicemen whose loved ones are in the special military operation zone turn to such photoshoots.

‘Many men cannot physically be with their families, and AI photoshoots help visually fill this absence. In the photos, the father or husband appears next to loved ones. Such photographs are in demand among couples, women, and men,’ our heroine said.

How much does a photoshoot cost

Nastya«s work costs depending on the number of photos. On average, one photoshoot of 6–8 images costs five thousand rubles (approximately $67). You can also order a single frame — its price is 500 rubles (approximately $7). If two people are in the photo, the cost increases to 1,000 rubles (approximately $13) due to the larger volume of work.

‘Prices vary among different specialists. After the New Year holidays, I reduced the cost of services. The price includes subscriptions to paid programs through which images are created, as well as the time spent on processing each frame,’ clarifies Anastasia.

In her opinion, AI photoshoots are already starting to replace traditional ones in many ways. Ordinary shooting requires time, studio rental, selection of locations and looks, as well as lengthy post-processing. Artificial intelligence removes these limitations and allows creating scenes that are impossible to realize in reality.

‘For example, photos with fairy-tale or cartoon characters, fantastic animals, or unusual decorations are difficult to bring to life,’ notes Anastasia. ‘With the help of AI, this becomes possible, and such frames especially delight children.’

Trends in AI photoshoots are constantly changing. Before the New Year holidays, winter looks against a forest background were popular, as well as stylization as vintage postcards with portraits of loved ones. At the same time, Anastasia is confident that the future lies with artificial intelligence. In her near-term plans is new training: revitalizing old photos, integrating people into clips and videos with celebrities.