We were lucky to catch up with Natalie Stephenson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Natalie , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

I started my photography business in 2004, slowly and intentionally. At the time, my main job—the one I cared most about—was being a mom to my two boys. Photography had been a passion since I got my first camera at nine, and I loved the creative side of it deeply. But the business side? That did not come naturally. I often felt like I was winging it—underqualified, overwhelmed, and just trying to keep up.

As my kids grew, so did the business. And with that growth came growing pains. I remember feeling burnt out somewhere around 2017. I started wondering if I should pivot entirely. I had been teaching beginner classes and thought maybe that was my next chapter—becoming a full-time photography instructor. But those doors didn’t open.

Then came 2020. Amid all the chaos of that year, something quietly transformative happened: I enrolled in an intensive business course. It started with dreaming—literally mapping out what I wanted my life to look like. We worked through money, systems, creativity, vision… all of it. For the first time, I really saw the potential of what this business could be. I created offerings I was proud of, refined my pricing, and finally started to feel like a real business owner—not just a photographer.

That doesn’t mean I never think about what it might be like to have a regular job—something simpler, where I could clock out at five and someone else handles the messy stuff. Those thoughts usually show up on the hard days, when I’m buried in admin tasks or second-guessing decisions. But then I remind myself: I love this work. I love the people I get to work with, and I love creating images that preserve their memories or help them show off what they do. I’ve even brought on a bit of support recently, which has helped me stay focused on what I do best. I can’t imagine doing anything else and truly I’m grateful this is my job.

Natalie , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Natalie Stephenson, a professional photographer based in Bend, Oregon, specializing in motherhood, family, and branding portraits. For more than two decades, I’ve created timeless images rooted in connection—photos that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.

My love of photography started when I was nine and gifted with a camera, and that journey of love has never stopped growing. What began as a part-time business, working mostly with friends who trusted me, eventually grew into something much more—a full creative experience designed to take care of my clients at every step.

What I offer now is more than just a session. It’s an experience. For families, I guide clients from wardrobe styling through to printed artwork, so they never have to worry about what to wear—or leave their images sitting on a hard drive, unseen and unloved. For business owners, I help create brand portraits that show not just what they do, but who they are. Every detail is intentional—because I believe portraits should reflect your story, not just your smile.

What sets my work apart is the level of care I bring to every step—from our first conversation to the moment you hang your portraits on the wall. My goal is for clients to feel completely taken care of—and to walk away with images that feel like them.

What I’m most proud of? The trust my clients place in me. Whether I’m documenting a baby’s first year or helping a small business show off their passion, I get to be part of something personal—and that’s an honor.

At the end of the day, I want my clients to feel something when they look at their images. That’s the whole point.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One thing that might surprise non-creatives is just how much intention and ongoing experimentation goes into the creative process. It’s not just about having a good eye—it’s about constantly asking questions, trying new things, and being willing to get it wrong before you get it right.

Back in 2005, I took a class where the instructor shared a simple idea that’s stuck with me ever since: “What if?”
What if I got lower? What if I climbed a ladder? What if I shot through these leaves or shifted the light—or asked for movement instead of still smiles at the camera? That kind of curiosity keeps things fresh, even when I’m in the same location or working with familiar poses.

Creativity is also an emotional process for me. It lights me up. Honestly, it doesn’t even matter what I’m photographing (unless it’s real estate—that truly bores me, so I happily refer that out). There’s nothing like leaving a session and knowing I did my job well. Elation is the only word I think of to describe it.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think what’s helped me build a strong reputation in my market is simple: I truly care. I care about my clients, their families, and their experience with me—from start to finish.

I’ve built my business largely through repeat clients and referrals (and now, with a little help from Google). I’m known for my smile and warm, happy demeanor, but also for being intentional. Before a session, I take the time to learn names, ages, and dynamics so I can personalize the experience from the very beginning. Whether it’s a family portrait or a branding session, I want people to feel seen, understood, and fully taken care of.

I’ve been honored to be voted Bend’s Best Photographer for children and families nine years in a row, and honestly, I still pinch myself. I think that recognition comes from a combination of trust, consistency, and genuine connection. My clients know I’ll show up prepared, present, and ready to give them my best—and that means a lot in today’s fast-paced world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nstephenson.com
• Instagram: nstephensonphotography
• Facebook: nstephensonphotography
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-stephenson-8743a525/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/natalie-stephenson-photography-bend?osq=Natalie+Stephenson+Photography

Image Credits

All images were taken by me, Natalie Stephenson