I’ve been a creative since a very early age. As a kid, I remember feeling like an alien, knowing I was not born to have a 9-5. My first love was music, so naturally I was sure that I’d become a rockstar.
A brief brush with boy band stardom during my upbringing in Moscow, Russia was a memorable time to say the least. My family moved to Utah in 1992, putting an end to my time in the spotlight. I was an alien all over again, and that feeling only grew exponentially. It wasn’t until college that I finally started to connect the dots and trust that internal calling to create. My interests became more visual in nature. For the first time in my life I was enjoying attending school and learning among likeminded people. I received a BA in Visual Communications with a Photography Minor.
I spent several years working as a freelance graphic designer and an art director, including two years in an advertising agency. I loved that time in my life and reflect back upon it as an immensely valuable experience. But I always wanted to work for myself and be my own boss, so after being laid off during the financial crisis of 2008, I seized the opportunity to pursue photography on a professional level. I can undoubtedly say that I found my calling, my true passion.
I LOVE what I do and take great pride in it. Shooting across many genres keeps me interested and engaged on a daily basis. No shoot is too small or insignificant, after all, it’s my name and reputation on the line each time I pick up the camera. I strive to create not only beautiful, but timeless images that demand the viewer’s attention.
A story has to be told, a feeling has to be evoked. I’m an old soul, so I tend to steer away from trends and gimmicks.
My favorite images beg the question instead of providing you with a simple answer. They stay with you. That’s what I’m after.

The first time I came across MANICPROJECT on Instagram, I was instantly intrigued. The images were unlike anything I had ever seen from photographers in Utah. Phillip’s artistic ability to evoke an emotion through his photos was fascinating to me. We instantly connected through our international roots and old souls. 
I was born in Brasilia, Brazil, the land known for its beautiful beaches and iconic Victoria’s Secret models. My family relocated to Utah when I was five, and my parents made it a point to maintain our cultural heritage while adopting the American culture. I started modeling when I was 14 after being scouted on a trip to New York, and was instantly bit by the fashion bug. The industry felt like home because it embraced and celebrated people’s differences. 
Over the years I’ve done a lot of shoots, but the ones I enjoyed most were more conceptual and editorial in nature. It was incredible to see everyone on set collaborating on bringing a specific vision to fruition. I found myself thriving in that kind of environment. 
Throughout my experience working with Phillip as a model and photographer duo, I have gained a greater understanding of his overall vision. I’ve also developed an interest for what goes on behind the scenes by witnessing all the elements of a shoot come together. 
My priority is to assess our client’s needs, and provide consistent communication including but not limited to the creative process, production, and project execution. We aim to provide a tailored experience that is anything but ordinary.

Contact: Rebecca@manicproject.com 

TESTIMONIALS:

"You'll probably never work with a photographer who is as committed to getting the right shot as Phillip is. His photography is exceptional, and so is his work ethic."
- Chip Haskell | Creative Director | LOVE Communications

“I've been having interior projects photographed for about 15 years now, all by the same photographer.  I commissioned Phillip to do a series of portraits, and loved his process as well as the outcome. Phillip is currently in the process of photographing 4 projects for my firm.  He brings a different perspective and a strong point of view that translate into the best interior shots I've ever had taken.  We will be using him on all of our future projects.”
- Jeff Landry | Jeff Landry Design

“Phillip Istomin is a creative, talented, visual artist who will capture the essence of a space, place and or surrounding through the lens with a real and raw approach. He is a true professional of which I have enjoyed working with through the fashion industry and interior photography projects.”
- Vanessa Di Palma Wright  | Founder | Farasha

“Phillip has an extensive background in graphic design, fashion, and visual arts, but what makes Phillip stand out is his drive to do whatever it takes to create captivating photography that will stop you in your tracks.”
- Janice Baker | Art Director | Three6ZeroStudio

“I love working with Phillip because I never have to worry or second guess him. He’s a great communicator, the ultimate professional, and  delivers exactly what he promises.”
- Jessica Peterson | Sales Manager | Peery Hotel, SLC

"I've chosen Phillip to work with over many other photographers in Salt Lake City because he is extremely talented... He has the eye of a true artists and can take beautiful pictures that are also a piece of art. If you are looking for family pictures, self portraits, or are needing a professional image for your business that will stand out... he is the person you want.. His Graphic design background gives his work a unique edge that I have not seen anyone else do in Salt Lake City, and his ability to make any person in front of his camera feel comfortable lets him take truly honest pictures that capture a feeling not just an image."
Cassie Nicholls | Owner | STYLD' Dry Bar

"MANICPROJECT is incredible to work with. Phillip is so talented and extremely professional. I own a model and talent agency in Utah and any time my models get the chance to work with MANICPROJECT we feel very fortunate because of the quality of work my talent gets to have in their portfolios. I recommend MANICPROJECT for any of your photography or design needs. The work is on par with anything you get from NY or LA!"
Niya Boyakin | Owner | NIYA Management