We recently connected with Natalis Savanh and have shared our conversation below.
Natalis, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk about social media – do you manage your own or do you have someone or a company that handles it for you? Why did you make the choice you did?
I manage my own social media and haven’t considered hiring anyone to manage it. My growth has been slow and steady due to juggling responsibilities outside of my business.
One piece of advice I’d give to future business owners in photography and modeling is to be your authentic self. Social media, despite being a valuable tool, can become saturated with trends and the pursuit of the next “big thing.” Sometimes, it’s okay to pause and allow your audience to find you.
Natalis, 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?
Natalis is a queer Laotian artist based in Portland, OR, specializing in portrait photography and modeling. Their journey into photography began in April 2021 when a acquaintance asked them to take senior photos using their dad’s camera. That experience sparked a passion for capturing meaningful moments and storytelling through imagery. Over time, they refined their skills, developing a unique artistic voice that blends emotion, authenticity, and personal connection.
What sets Natalis apart is that they are not just a look, they are a feeling that resonates through their art. Their work goes beyond aesthetics. It evokes emotion, tells a story, and creates a connection between the subject and the viewer. Whether through photography or modeling, they strive to capture raw, intimate moments that reflect the depth and complexity of human experience.
Natalis takes pride in creating work that feels personal and impactful, allowing their clients to see themselves in a new and empowering light. They want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that their art is deeply rooted in identity, emotion, and representation. By working with them, clients receive more than just a photograph, they receive a piece of art that encapsulates a feeling, a moment, and a story worth remembering.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding part of being an artist is sharing my perspective and showing the world what I see. When people connect with my work, that’s all I need. I know my vision is powerful, and I have so much more to create. With an unlimited budget, I’d be unstoppable with pushing boundaries, telling bigger stories, and bringing my ideas to life on a whole new level. But even now, I’m constantly evolving, and that journey is just as fulfilling.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I built my audience over time by connecting with other creatives, forming mutual relationships, and expanding my reach across different platforms beyond just Instagram. It wasn’t about chasing numbers or following trends, it was about genuine interactions and sharing my work with people who resonate with it. I’ve never focused on making “content” or tailoring my posts to fit an algorithm. If people connect with my art, they will engage naturally. At the end of the day, I’m an artist, not a content creator, and I prioritize authenticity over viral appeal.
For those just starting out, my advice is to focus on building real connections rather than chasing engagement. Find like-minded creatives, interact with their work, and stay true to your vision. Your audience will grow organically when your art speaks for itself.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/nataalis
