Meet Nathalya (Preferably: Nat) Iraola | Nat | Freelance Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nathalya (Preferably: Nat) Iraola and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nathalya (Preferably: Nat), what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
At a young age, I always had a different way of looking at things and I would enjoy spending my time being as creative as possible. I come from a hispanic background and growing up as a family oriented individual, I always surrounded myself by my parents and their own artistic ways. They gave me everything a child would need and it is something I am grateful for each day. Fast forwarding to a few years after passing through both middle and high school, it was challenging yet exciting to finish and finally graduate through that time in my life. However, entering college was more of a “freeing” kind of feeling that not many can achieve.
I began my college experience with studying for a career path that I was truly passionate about at the moment, which was a Veterinarian. I loved learning about animals throughout my lifetime and I was lucky enough to experience working in that field a few times before realizing that my “dream job” wasn’t enough for what I was looking for. I believe that after graduating college with an Associate of Arts Degree, this was my first step to opening many doors into a creative environment for myself, including photography. I definitely was not entirely sure of what I was “looking for” at the time, but with the support of my family, I was able to create a joyful and dedicated space for myself and my business as a freelance photographer. There were many times where I wasn’t sure of what would happen next, but at the same time it was a liberating sensation and I think that focusing my attention to what I am greatest at, was my best decision when I thought about creating my own brand and genuine business.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Having an artistic view has always been intriguing and fascinating to me, which is why I continued in that path towards a more “freestyle” environment throughout my life. I believe that being my unique self is my truest way of showing myself to others both professionally and personally. As a freelance photographer, I was able to create an exciting and innovative space where I can experiment with different individuals and other artistic minds to bring out something truly unique. I am very proud of my progress as a photographer and being able to share amazing stories to others is something I deeply treasure. It was not easy figuring out what sort of style I was aiming for myself and my business, but throughout various photography sessions, and meeting some special people along the way, it has been a wonderful experience overall, and I get even more excited for every new session that comes around. Through difficult times when I would slightly doubt myself as a business owner and a photographer, I would simply put a “pause” to certain things and think to myself that every day was a new day, and a new opportunity to change. It was a lesson that I learned throughout my life from multiple people, and I would like to let the world know that if something prevents you from chasing your ultimate dream or goal, you continue to fight for it, if it’s really what you wanted!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a photographer, visiting different locations and areas is very common and it has definitely encouraged me even more to continue growing with my business. With that being said, I have traveled to certain areas where I try to imagine any creative and unique scenes in my mind, and I would love to create one day! If I had any friends visiting the area, I would love to take them to a colorful, trendy, and aesthetically pleasing location known as Casa Florida! After having a delicious brunch, a trip to Las Olas beach would be amazing or simply strolling through the boulevard would be a great way to end my day! There are always plenty of stores and other shops to buy from and overall spend a lovely day with different activities. It has always been entertaining for me to try out different locations spontaneously from time to time, and that is something I’d love to share with others!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I believe that most of my family deserves a special shoutout to supporting another passion of mine, that I did not really see coming into my life. At times, it was difficult to see my business grow rapidly in the long-term, but with much help and commitment, not only from myself but also from those around me, I was truly surprised to see my own business grow at its own rate, and with many great experiences and stories to tell from amazing and unforgettable individuals. I always felt encouraged to continue pursuing a dream of mine that I knew would make me happy, and I believe that creating my own business was the right way to lead me there.

Website: https://www.photofanaticvisuals.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photofanaticvisuals/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077675424194

Other: Email: book.photofanatic@gmail.com