Meet the PixelPool global team

Zara Kurteva sees the world through the lens of the photographer. This vision led her to PixelPool and its nurturing environment for the curious and the artistically minded. After showing the dedication to apply herself to understanding the company's technical side -- PixelPool welcomed the determined Kurteva to its Sofia team.

What did you study and why?

I graduated with a BA in Photography. I’ve always been drawn to visual arts, which was also my major in high school and I believe that’s where my talent lies and I’ve never had any doubt that it’s what I would like to do.

What drew you to your current job at PixelPool?

It’s a funny story. In fact, I never thought I’d be doing what I am today.

A friend of mine worked at PixelPool when the company was doing mainly 3D Retail visualizations of spaces. They weren’t yet doing many product visualizations, for things like apparel. While at the park with a couple of my friend’s colleagues they mentioned they were looking to expand their team into product visualization of garments, in particular. At the time I was working as a product photographer, and I wasn't feeling inspired by it.

The following week, PixelPool did a recruitment presentation. I attended and left thinking this is what I wanted to do in the future. I wasn’t familiar with the technical aspect, what kind of software programs they were using, so I decided to make learning about them my goal for the following months spending two months learning the programs, watching tutorials, and familiarizing myself with the industry in general. After that I applied for a Junior Virtual Fashion Specialist position and I believe the PixelPool team saw my potential to grow and my desire to learn, so they hired me. 

Now, seven years later, I’m happy to be working as Virtual Fashion Supervisor. I’m responsible for the quality of the products which we supply to one of our biggest clients. Over the years, I’ve also held a mid-level position and in addition to that a Team Lead, managing a team of six designers.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love my day-to-day work. I’m lucky to belong to a wonderful team of outstanding professionals. We start our day with a coffee and tackle the daily challenges as a team. No matter what we have on the agenda that day, we face it with a smile because together we feel supported. 

What is your favorite hobby? 

I love doing yoga during my free time. It gives me balance; peace of mind and it teaches me to be more present. I love quality European cinema. My other hobby, which is more of a passion, is my photography – analog photography to be specific. I like the colors, the sharpness of the image, everything being natural without the need for editing. And, like yoga or meditation, photography requires patience.

Who in your profession do you most admire and why?

The company which inspires me the most and takes me out of my comfort zone is The Fabricant. I also like the work of INDG. If we talk about fashion designers or brands, it’s JACQUEMUS, or BY FAR and because I’m very into classics – CHANEL.

What excites you about the future of PixelPool?

I’m very curious to see how our industry will evolve and how our company will grow. In 10 years, our Bulgarian office has already grown to almost 70 people.

I’m also very proud that we are supporting a more sustainable, innovation-driven fashion industry that cares for its clients and our planet.