After studying biology and working in cancer research and drug discovery for nearly 10 years, in my late twenties I decided to leave science and change my career. So what was it that made me turn away from science and led me to become a professional photographer specialising in family and pet portraiture and wedding photography?

I grew up in a country with a regimented education system, with little emphasis on creativity. I was born in Belgrade, Serbia in 1983 and had a fairly idyllic childhood until the Balkan war broke out in 1990. This dominated the rest of the nineties, and my childhood. At the age of 16 I left Serbia for England on my own to pursue a conventional scientific education and a career in drug discovery.

I have always been a very visual person, enjoying looking back on old black and white family photos and faded colour albums, and hearing stories my parents and grandparents told. Each of the photographs telling a story, reminding me of a time that once was. My family on a summer vacation, me and my beloved dog playing in the snow, my brother and me with my grandparents. Each a little treasure. I was always attracted to photography but never had the opportunity to learn about it. This opportunity only presented itself when I was in my late twenties, I got my first dSLR camera and started attending photography courses. I began to learn photography through some amazing teachers, books and practice sessions. I love photography because it captures a moment in time that is otherwise forever gone. 

Now I want to capture those happy memories for my clients so their children and grandchildren can relive their favourite times and people with the passing years. Whether it is an anniversary, a first birthday, a graduation, a family gathering or your beloved pet; I aim to document your life events and memories in a set of beautiful photographs which will evoke happy memories, with a hint of nostalgia in years to come.

My working style is professional, relaxed and unintrusive, focusing on trying to capture genuine moments using soft natural light. My photoshoots are easy going and fun, done at a location of your choice, either in the comfort of your home, in your favourite park or both!   

I photograph mainly in London, Surrey and the south east, but I also travel to other parts of the UK at an additional travel costs. I also love travelling and photographing weddings abroad, and have covered wedding photography in Germany, France, Serbia and Mexico. I also teach kids photography workshops and DofE Skills Awards with Sharp Shots Photo Club at several locations in West Sussex. It gives me great pleasure to pass my knowledge to kids, and see their enthusiasm and progress over the course of a workshop or term.

I would love to hear from you to discuss your requirements and ideas - please contact me via email at info@minamilanovic-photography.com or using the contact form on my website. If you'd prefer to have a chat call me on 07793 677 867. I look forward to hearing from you!