Hi — I’m Nilla.
Running has been part of my life since primary school. Back then I simply preferred moving under my own steam — walking instead of taking the bus, and often breaking into a relaxed jog just because it felt good. And, as children do, I’d let my imagination run as well — as if I were free to simply race across the world under my own power. Over time that simple joy of movement slowly became part of who I am.
The beginning of my journey as a running photographer
Photography also found me young — as a teenager I started experimenting with our family camera. Later, after leaving school, everyday working life carried me along for a while, and photography slipped quietly into the background.
A turning point came when, due to a medical condition, my doctor advised me to avoid racing so that my body could recover. I still couldn’t let go of the atmosphere of running events, though — so I stayed involved as a course marshal. And since I was already out on the course, I was asked whether I’d like to take photos of the runners as well.
Why good running photos
matter
At first the expectation was simple:
“Please make sure everyone gets a photo.”
But for me, it was never just about taking a photo — it mattered deeply what kind of photo it was.
Again and again I met runners who felt that they simply never looked good in running photos — whether those images were taken during races, on training runs with friends, or quickly snapped on a phone by someone they love. Even strong, skilled, confident runners often struggled to recognise themselves in those pictures. And I realised how many people quietly carry this feeling.
So from the very beginning, I was paying close attention to movement, timing, and expression. To the moment when runners look like the best of themselves. To me, this way of seeing felt essential. Not just because they felt this way — but because it felt right to me, too.
And that became my passion: creating running photos people can genuinely like — photographing runners the way they want to be seen.
My experience in running photography
Since 2019 I’ve been photographing runners in many different settings — from trail races and community runs to ultrarunning events and individual portrait sessions — in Hungary, Austria and beyond. Over these years I’ve had the chance to observe thousands of runners in motion, and to keep refining my eye for their world.
As a highly sensitive person, I tend to notice and value the smallest details. And because I’m also quite introverted, my approach is calm, observant and gentle. I won’t ask you to pose like in a fashion shoot, or to pretend to be someone you’re not. You don’t have to perform for the camera. You just bring yourself — your pace, your rhythm, your way of moving. I’ll take care of the rest.
More than just photos
And although I didn’t find my place in the traditional helping professions (even though one of my professions is in social care), I’ve realised that I can still support people in a quieter way. Through these sessions — through presence, calm guidance and carefully made images — I feel I can offer something more than just photographs: the experience of seeing yourself with clarity and appreciation.
That’s what photography is for me — not just a service, but a way of caring for the running community I love.
If our paths ever cross — whether on the trails, at a race, or during a personal photoshoot — I hope you’ll feel seen, supported and comfortable in front of my camera. My goal is to show your run as your world: your energy, your mindset, your story. During our session, we shape the images together, so the photos can feel real — and you can feel good in them.
