Interview: Natalie Folchi

As soon as I met Natalie in  early 2016, I was inspired by her passion for photography and her ability to make anything and everything she shoots look incredibly beautiful.

What's her secret to quickly growing an amazing photography business in under two years? Her talent, her ability to make clients feel comfortable, and her background in PR, writing, and social media. Yep, she's got it all!

Natalie, how long have you been a photographer? What kind of work do you do?
I bought my first DSLR in 2014 because I wanted to take better quality photos for my lifestyle blog (my iPhone at the time wasn't cutting it). I fell in love with my camera and with taking pictures of anything and everything, but I didn't consider turning my passion into a side business until 2016. That was the year my boyfriend and I traveled to San Francisco to visit my best friend who got engaged. She had asked me to photograph her engagement session and from that moment on, I was hooked. 

What is your favorite thing to photograph? Why?
I love photographing people. I once had a couple tell me that they hated having their pictures taken, but that I helped change that. That moment made everything worth it. As a photographer, you can help bring out confidence in your subjects, or capture sweet moments that they'll cherish forever. You can't put a price on that. 

When was the last time you felt frustrated about your work as a photographer? How did get get past it?
I feel frustrated more times than I'd like to admit. I compare myself to others who have been in the game for years. It's hard not to. But then I remind myself to enjoy the journey and trust the process. When you work hard and practice and continue to hone your craft, you're going to get better. No matter how experienced you are, there will always be something new to learn and there will always be room to grow. 

Do you have a muse? (This can be a person, a city, an Instagram account, anything!)
I find inspiration in the little things. Sometimes it strikes randomly, like when I'm sitting in a busy coffee shop or flipping through the Anthropologie Home catalog (GOALS). When it comes to other photographers, I'm always inspired by those who capture movement and emotion well. I love Lauren Scotti and Jordan Voth -- they're amazing! 

What's something you haven't yet learned how to do (in photography), but want to learn soon?
Natural light is my favorite, but I'd love to master artificial light. So many people shy away from it, but when done well, flash can really transform and bring depth to an image. 

Natalie, let's spend some time playing around with studio light soon! :)

Happy Friday, everyone!
Autumn