Kirill Bykanov, a 24-year-old photographer and filmmaker originally from Moscow, Russia, has crafted an extraordinary career by blending his passion for visual storytelling with his love for music. His journey, which began in the bustling cityscape of Moscow, has taken him through Austria, New Hampshire, and ultimately to the vibrant streets of New York City.
A Transcontinental Move
Kirill's American adventure started at the age of 15 when he moved to the United States as an exchange student. Originally intended to be a short-term English immersion experience, his time in the U.S. sparked a deep affection for the people he met while visiting. So profound was this connection that Kirill decided he wasn't ready to leave, setting the stage for a future filled with creative endeavors.
Academic and Creative Foundations
Upon moving to New York City, Kirill pursued a degree in filmmaking at New York University (NYU). Although his initial focus was on film, it was during his senior year that he discovered a newfound love for photography. His graduation coincided with the 2023 writers' strike, which temporarily halted his film aspirations. However, this setback proved serendipitous, as it led Kirill to immerse himself more seriously in photography.
The Rise of a Concert Photographer
Kirill's entry into the world of photography began with a focus on film but evolved into a passion for stills. He made a name for himself as a concert photographer in NYC, capturing dynamic moments from the rock and metal scenes. His connections within the music industry helped him land gigs with bands like The Backfires, Double Standard, Phoneboy, and The Telescreens.
A Multifaceted Career
In addition to concert photography, Kirill has diversified his portfolio with roles that include newborn photography for a hospital. His work extends into film as well, having created music videos for The Backfires as both a creative director and producer. Despite not being formally trained in photography, Kirill’s dedication to learning and experimenting—often described by his motto, "You won’t learn unless you mess up"—has propelled his success.
Unique Experiences and Memorable Moments
Kirill’s career has afforded him the opportunity to shoot in eclectic locations like arcades, haunted houses, and even a papier-mâché warehouse in Brooklyn called Rubulad. This venue not only provided a unique backdrop for his photography but also served as a filming location for the movie “Throuple,” a non-binary rock and roll rom-com.
A memorable anecdote from his touring life involves accidentally stumbling into a rave in Grand Rapids, Michigan while trying to navigate through a venue’s maze of rooms. Such experiences highlight Kirill’s adventurous spirit and his ability to find beauty and excitement in unexpected places.
The Future of Kirill Bykanov
Kirill’s aspirations for the future include continuing to work closely with artists as a creative director and diving deeper into film projects, though he is no longer interested in pursuing Hollywood. He is particularly drawn to the burgeoning talent in Philadelphia and dreams of shooting concerts for Aurora, Pierce the Veil, and Twenty-One Pilots.
His approach to photography involves extensive research on the artists he shoots, allowing him to tailor his work to their style and persona. Kirill values the relationships he builds with artists and fans alike, noting that this connection enriches his creative process and makes the experience more fulfilling.
From his early days in Moscow to his current success in New York City, Kirill Tiff’s journey is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and passion. His unique blend of experiences—spanning from film and concert photography to unexpected adventures—shapes his distinctive style and continues to inspire those around him. As Kirill forges ahead, his story is a compelling example of how embracing new opportunities and following one's passions can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Written by Mckenzie Blasi
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