There’s a quiet poetry in the way Ivona Bezmalinović (known on Instagram as @bezminica) sees the world. A photographer from Split, Ivona captures life not in its grandeur, but in its stillness, the soft gestures, fleeting glances, and honest emotions that often go unnoticed. Her images speak of connection, warmth, and authenticity, mirroring her belief that beauty lives in the in-between moments. Deeply inspired by movement, light, and human connection, Ivona approaches both life and photography with mindfulness and emotion. Whether she’s chasing sunsets by the sea or capturing the rhythm of everyday life, her work feels intimate and alive, a reflection of her philosophy to live simply, observe deeply, and create with heart. In conversation with Viva’s, Ivona shares her thoughts on creativity, sustainability, and the stories she hopes to tell through her lens.

The photos below showcase Viva’s timeless KARLA Bag in Dark Caramel.

1. When you pick up your camera, what story are you hoping to capture?
I’m always looking to capture the quiet, in-between moments, the raw, unfiltered
emotions that tell real stories. I aim to freeze time in a way that feels genuine and alive,
showing moments as they truly are, not as they’re posed to be.

2. How would you describe your photographic style in three words?
Emotional, honest, spontaneous

3. What emotions do you hope people feel when they see your work?
I hope they feel connection to the people, to the story, and to something within
themselves. Whether it’s joy, nostalgia, or even stillness, I want my images to stir a
real feeling, not just admiration for the aesthetic.

4. How do you balance spontaneity with direction during a shoot?
I create space for both. I set a tone and gentle direction to guide the flow, but I also
leave room for the unexpected the laughter between poses, the subtle gestures,
the natural rhythm that unfolds when people forget the camera is there.

5. What is your passion, what inspires you?
I’m passionate about life in all its forms — its rhythm, movement, and emotion. I find
inspiration in music and dance, in the sea and its calm strength, in sunsets that remind me of impermanence, and in architecture and beautiful places that tell stories of human
creativity. But most of all, I’m inspired by people, their cultures, habits, and diversity. The
way we live, connect, and express ourselves across the world fascinates me and
constantly shapes how I see and capture life through my lens.

6. Do you have rituals or routines that fuel your creativity?
I often start my day with coffee, music, a walk. I try to stay observant throughout the day; it reminds me that beauty is everywhere. Traveling, journaling, watching movies, exploring, spending time in nature also help me reset and refocus creatively.

7. Is your personal style something you consciously shape or something that naturally reflects who you are?
It’s a natural reflection of who I am. My photography has evolved with me it mirrors
how I see the world, what I value, and how I connect with people. I don’t try to force a look; it grows organically through experience and emotion.

8. What qualities do you look for in clothing and accessories?
Simplicity, comfort, and authenticity. I love pieces that feel lived-in and timeless
things that allow me to move freely and feel like myself, especially when I’m
shooting.

9. What’s always in your bag?
Sunglasses, hand and lip balm, AirPods (the ones I somehow don’t lose), a black
pen, and lately, my analog camera. I love having it with me to capture moments in
a slower, more intentional way.

10. What does sustainability mean to you?
For me, sustainability is about choosing quality over quantity, investing in things that
truly last, both in meaning and in time. In a time of consumerism and constant pressure to have more, I try to resist the idea that we “must” own everything. Instead, I focus on what feels genuine and lasting choosing natural materials, simplicity, and mindful living over excess. It’s not always easy, but I try to stay on that path.

11. How do you incorporate sustainable choices into your daily life?
I live and make decisions in a way that reflects mindfulness and sustainability. I shop thoughtfully and always consider the environmental and social impact of what I buy or do. Whenever possible, I choose options that support a sustainable lifestyle and I try to live by these values every day and teach them to my children.

12. If your lifestyle could inspire one change in others, what would you want it to be?
To slow down. To appreciate the beauty in the ordinary and find meaning in real
moments, both in life and through the lens.

Ivona is wearing Viva's KARLA Bag in Dark Caramel.