Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Oravitz.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
For as long as I can remember, I have always been interested in all things art. Whether it was drawing, painting, designing, etc., I was all in. I had always known art was the field I wanted to work in, it was just a matter of what direction.
Growing up, I was never really certain of myself or my decisions but I can wholeheartedly say coming to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) was easily one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever made. Being surrounded by and having the ability to collaborate with so many creative individuals has definitely helped define me, not only as an artist but as an individual.
Coming into SCAD, I wasn’t entirely sure which route I’d end up taking because I just loved art so much, how was I supposed to choose just ONE concentration?? Deep down though, I think I had always known photography would become my career path one way or another, solely because when it came to [taking] photos and memories I was a hoarder, I loved it! It was also a way to combine my love for designing in the sense that I was creating an image while also showing off other creatives’ work.
To think I’ll get to continue to do that has me so excited for my future.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In all honesty, the road up until this point hasn’t been the smoothest. Growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania comes with a lot of love but also a lot of judgment. For the most part, the ones closest to me supported my decisions as an artist, but others not so much.
Some couldn’t grasp the idea of making a living off of a “hobby”, but I also couldn’t imagine it any other way. Photography/Art has taught me more about myself than anyone else ever could and although it wasn’t my ideal path, it was the perfect path for me.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
For those that don’t know, I am a commercial photographer from the Greater Pittsburgh (PA) and Savannah (GA) areas. When it comes to my work, I solely focus on fashion and advertising work. I love working with students, creatives, brands, etc.
My goal when shooting, what I feel sets me apart from others, is that I aim to capture the raw momentary beauty of the commercial and editorial fashion world one image at a time. I aim to make the model, artist, etc. feel beautiful and proud of the final presentation, to find pride in themselves.
Since establishing myself as a photographer, I have also come to establish a brand for myself “no photoz.”, playing off the phrase “no photos please” and the “z” reemphasizing the “z” in my last name. “no photoz” has become something I’m super proud of, not only because it is a representation of everything I hope to be, but it again reemphasizes the raw natural beauty I hope to present within my photographic style.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Follow your heart.
If I’ve learned anything over the years it’s that people will say things and act certain ways because they feel it’s what is best for you. But in the end, if I hadn’t followed my heart, I wouldn’t be where I am right now and I think that’s something to be proud of. Yes, I had help from others along the way, but I am the one that got myself here.
Contact Info:
- Email: natalieoravitzphotography.com
- Website: https://www.nophotoz.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/no.photoz/
