“Idyll”: A Romanticized Vision of Rural Life Captured by Eliza Kania

“The countryside evokes a nostalgia and peace that the city cannot offer, though sometimes it’s just a fantasy.”

Photographer Eliza Kania’s editorial, Idyll, explores an idealized rural life, inspired by Polish folklore and literature, especially the concept of chłopomania, which romanticizes peasant life while overlooking its hardships. Set in a 100-year-old cottage in her Polish village, this location, with its authentic vintage details, deepened the idyllic theme of simplicity and harmony.

“The old cottage was key in reinforcing the editorial’s theme due to its authenticity.”

Using her Fujifilm XT4 and 18-55mm lens, Kania captured this nostalgic narrative with quick adaptability to various focal lengths, while her Polaroid Impulse added an enchanting, vintage feel to the shoot.

“Post-production is about bringing out the right colors and tones to unify the atmosphere.”

For Kania, post-production is a crucial final touch, enhancing colors to evoke the rural tranquility that defines Idyll. Collaborating closely with her team, including stylist Patrycja, makeup artist Gaia, and models Sylwia and Natalia, Kania’s vision unfolded seamlessly, each detail contributing to the editorial’s cohesive and nostalgic portrayal of pastoral life.

photography Eliza Kania @elizakania_
video Patrycja Ciesielska @lookpatrycja
style Patrycja Dziewit @dziewit_portfolio
make-up Gaia Gołębska @gaiagolebska.mua
hair Magdalena Kania @magdalenahair_
model Sylwia Dobek @dobek.sylwia, Natalia Biegun @biegun.natalia