Hello, I am Dr. Aneta Coufalova

I am a psychologist and a portrait, wedding, and landscape photographer based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California, USA.
Originally from the Czech Republic in Europe, I hold two Doctorate degrees in Psychology, having graduated from both Czech (2013) and American (2022) universities.

Beyond the therapy chair, I am a passionate photographer on a mission to capture the essence of the beauty of flowers, nature, landscapes and human spirit via portraits. My wanderlust has taken me from the enchanting culture of Czech Republic to the vibrant landscapes of California. Exploring new places and capturing their essence through my lens is not just a hobby but a source of inspiration that fuels my spirit. Through the lens of my camera and portraiture, I have been exploring the profound connection between the vulnerability and strength of human beings. Photography, for me, is not just an art form; it's a celebration of authenticity and self-discovery. Each portrait I capture tells a story—a narrative of courage, resilience, and the incredible beauty that emerges when we embrace our true selves.

One of my other greatest joys is embarking on road trips, soaking in the scenic beauty that unfolds with each turn. There's something magical about the freedom of the open road and the promise of new discoveries around every corner.
Food is another doorway to culture, and I find immense joy in savoring the rich flavors of Indian and Vietnamese cuisine.

The ocean, sunsets, and the delicate beauty of morning dew on flowers hold a special place in my heart. These natural wonders often serve as metaphors in my own reflections, and I find solace in their timeless beauty.

 

As a self-taught photographer, my journey began in 2006 with a focus on macro/close-up photography. Initially drawn to capturing the delicate beauty of water drops and flowers in their natural habitat, I later transitioned into portraiture. My background in nature photography has significantly influenced my style, emphasizing unique compositions, depth of field, and a nuanced understanding of colors to highlight the beauty of my models.

Leveraging the natural environment, I've honed the ability to create visually striking images that seamlessly complement the inherent beauty of my subjects. Proficient in utilizing natural lighting, I believe that the innate talent for photography is a gift, allowing an intuitive connection with the photographic moment, often surpassing what formal institutions can impart. I firmly believe that artists are perpetually evolving, and there's no need to confine one's skills.
Embracing this philosophy, I view every idea, even those outside my 'comfort zone,' as an opportunity to create something truly unique. Despite this, my genuine passion lies in capturing portraits, sunsets and close-up shots of nature.



PRESS

Promo Magazine, model Kamilé, WORLDWIDE, Fashion & Style - Issue 52, March 2018, pages 46-49

Pump Magazine, model Alyssa - The Natural Fashion Edition - Vol 1, March 2018, cover page

Naše příroda (Czech Republic), cover, 02/2016

Digifoto (Czech Republic), cover + article with pictures, 06/2011

Nedělní Blesk (Czech Republic), article with pictures, 09.05.2010 (online here)

Digifoto (Czech Republic), article with pictures, 10/2008

Digifoto (Czech Republic), article with pictures, 4/2008

Digifoto pro - online (Holland), article with pictures, 5/2008

Digifoto pro - magazine (Holland), article about Sigma lens with picture, 1/2008

Mladá fronta DNES (Czech Republic), article with pictures, 26.01.2008

 

COMPETITIONS

Fotostart (Czech Republic), winer of the competition, online here, 05/2018

Fotostart (Czech Republic), winer of 2. round of competition "Beauty of flowers and trees ", with picture "Sněženková", online here, 10/2017

Baltictrio (Czech Republic), 2. place at category "Beauties of the world", with picture "Petra", 10/2014

Baltictrio (Czech Republic), 2. place at category: "Fauna and flora", with picture "Kvítková", 10/2013

MyFinePix (Czech Republic), 1. place at topic "Spring is here", with picture "Sedmikrásková", 4/2012

Travel photo 2011 (Czech Republic), 1. place at topic "Sun", with picture "Plameňáci", 12/2011

Fotovideo (Czech Republic), 2. place at topic "Wind, waves and rain", with picture "Zmoklé", 02/2011

Digitální foto (n. 89) (Czech Republic), topic: "Sunset", with picture "Gran Canaria", 12/2010

Just shoot it (Czech Republic), 1.place at category: "Sport", with picture "Běžkařská", 10/2011

Just shoot it (Czech Republic), jury award at category: "People: this is good time", with picture "Gran Canaria", 10/2010

 

CALENDARS

Aneta Coufalova 2019 (Czech Republic)

Aneta Coufalova 2018 (Czech Republic)

Aneta Coufalova 2017 (Czech Republic)

Aneta Coufalová 2016 (Czech Republic)

Aneta Coufalová 2010 (Czech Republic), Tetra Pak, for business partners

Calendar Nikon 2011 (Czech Republic), picture "Gran Canaria" for month of July, 11/2010

 

BOOKS AND DIARY COVERS

Diary 2013 (Czech Republic), picture "pampelišková", Baloušek a tisk s.r.o., 10/2012

Fotografujeme kreativně (Czech Republic), picture "Bříšková" + 2 pictures inside ("Bříšková" and "Pírková"), 11/2008

 

EXHIBITIONS

Café Encounter (Czech Republic), 8 pictures, Café Encounter, Brno, 18.5.2012 - 29.6.2012

1 picture: Nikon 2011 Calendar (Czech Republic) - top 12, Prague, month of July, "Gran Canaria", 11/2010

1 picture: Just shoot it (Czech Republic), centrum Fotoškoda, Prague, picture "Běžkařská", 10/2011

1 picture: Just shoot it (Czech Republic), restaurant Café rozmar, Prague, jury winner with picture "Gran Canaria", 10/2010

2 pictures: Culto (Czech Republic), Café and Gallery Le Court, Prague, 04/2010

Plamínek na Radlase gallery (Czech Republic), 30 pictures, Jihomoravská plynárenská, Brno, 30.8.2010 - 1.10.2010