Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Chiles.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Natalie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I got started in photography by way of blogging. As a new mom I was trying to take better photos of my craft projects and kids. I took a class up in Orange County, and things very quickly shifted from blogging to photography.
Before this career change I was a music teacher for 13 years. My experience with children during that time, plus being a mother to my own three children, has been an excellent foundation for working with kids of all ages. I love one-on-one work with kids the most!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I would say the learning curve was pretty steep at first. While I did take a class to get started, much of my photography knowledge is self-taught. When I was starting I took a lot of really bad photos, and that’s okay! I am constantly learning new techniques and tricks; I am a lifelong learner, for sure!
Starting a business in San Diego has also been challenging, as it is a very competitive market, and there are a ton of photographers who are willing to shoot for free or for a discount. I was super lucky to find a group of women photographers; without them I think I would feel very different about this profession.
Please tell us about Natalie Chiles Photography.
I specialize in one-on-one work. My passion is high school seniors and creative/lifestyle headshots. I love working with women, and especially women entrepreneurs. I also specialize in modern school portraiture. I love offering schools a new, fresh take on school photos.
What sets me apart is that I take my time with people. I love helping them prepare, and when we start their session I do everything I can to encourage my clients, and let them know that they CAN look great in front of the camera! Anyone can have a gorgeous photo- and they should, especially if they are a business owner.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Sometimes I wish I could go back to school and study photography for an undergraduate degree. However, I was in a very different place as a college student- I don’t know that I would end up in the same place. I can’t imagine not doing photography now- it’s become such an integral part of my life.
If I did get a chance to start over, I would definitely reach out and find more colleagues sooner; finding a group of peers I can trust has been a huge blessing.
Pricing:
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.nataliechiles.com
- Email: natalie@nataliechiles.com
- Instagram: @nataliechiles
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NatalieChilesPhotography/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/nataliechiles
Image Credit:
All images by Natalie Chiles.
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