We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Natalie Lopez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Natalie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The best investments I’ve made have been upgrading my photography gear and putting the time in to building my vision for myself as a photographer. Years ago I was gifted my first camera with kit lenses and was able to learn from it but I wanted more oomph to my photos. Anyone that knows photography knows equipment is not cheap, so I invested in myself, hustled, and eventually my gear paid for itself and then some after booking gigs. I spent hours brainstorming concepts, overthinking, overanalyzing, and eventually hitting the ‘Publish’ button on mysite with a small portfolio because I wanted more and I wanted to use my creativity. All of it took time and money, and certainly it was a gamble, but it has paid off and I am grateful.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I got into photography initially to use my own photos for reference for my illustrations, but I have rarely experimented with my photos since my photography took off in a different direction after discovering my love for photojournalism. While studying journalism, I had an assignment to write about a local event so I contacted LouFest in St. Louis, a two day outdoor music festival with multiple bands, and explained my assignment hoping to write and photograph the festival. I was approved, shot my first gig, and have been hooked ever since. I continue to photograph concerts primarily but I have offered wedding, family and lifestyle photography. What sets me apart from others is I put a ton of effort into trying to provide what the customer wants by getting to know them on a personal level; what excites them, what they are passionate about so their photos can reflect that. Being in front of a camera can be awkward so I attempt to make the process feel as laid back but professional as possible. I take pride in customer service by offering quick turn around times and excellent communication.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to continue to learn and grow in photography. There are so many techniques and amazing things a photographer can do with lighting to really enhance or even change the mood of a photo, and I just haven’t ventured down that path yet. I have been mostly all about natural light but that doesn’t always work for photography (i.e. very dim wedding receptions). I am also working towards working in sports photojournalism as it has always had my heart but most of my opportunities have been in music, which I am incredibly grateful for. I am very excited to be on this path and see where God leads me.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is that you hold the camera or paint brush, and you determine what you want to do with it. It’s your vision and it’s beautiful.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.natalielopezphotography.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nadie24
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/natalielopezphotography
• Other: Snap: photonatalie TikTok: photonatalie

Image Credits
Natalie Lopez Photography