Vendor Spotlight: Natalie Andrusiak
Natalie Andrusiak is an award-winning photographer who splits her time between Houston, Texas and Calgary, Alberta. Natalie’s work allows her to be a storyteller, a keeper of moments and a historian. Before she became a wedding photographer about ten years ago, she taught high school English and Photography. She’s always been inspired by the intimate interactions that occur between people, which is probably what makes her photography so moving and beautiful. We sat down to chat with her this week.
JR: Tell us about your business. How did you get started in photography?
NA: My passion for photography came to me later than some. Previous to my life as a wedding photographer, I was a high school English and Social Studies teacher. When the school I was teaching in planned to pilot a photography program, I jumped at the chance to be involved. The rest, as they say, is history.
JR: What is your photography style?
NA: I find weddings to be a big beautiful day made up of smaller stories. My style is to blend into the background and capture these narratives. I like to observe the interactions around me and naturally capture them without interfering, while at the same time giving direction towards the best light and backdrop when possible. Each couple spends so much time planning their perfect day and I absolutely love seeing their visions come to life – it’s my job to document these details so they never forget just how perfectly “them” the day was.
JR: What is your favourite thing about working in the wedding industry?
NA: First and foremost, the weddings themselves! A wedding is a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring all of your friends and family together to celebrate this passionate, deep love you’ve found with one another. Weddings are always reflective of the couples’ life, which makes each one so unique and special. I love seeing how two people curate all their favourite things – food, music, rituals – to share with their nearest and dearest.
Being a part of the industry now for almost a decade, I’ve been able to make connections and friendships that I value immeasurably. I am very passionate about the Calgary wedding community, and think it is very special how we are constantly lifting each other up and cheering each other on – I count myself very lucky to be a part of it.
JR: How do you stay up to date with photography trends and technology?
The number one piece of advice I was given early on in my career was to unfollow everything wedding related and find inspiration in different mediums. I love flipping through fashion magazines for inspiration in my downtime.
JR: Do you have any other creative outlets?
NA: I am a mother and wife, a lover of beautiful things and a lover of love. When I am not behind my camera, you can find me chasing around my two amazing children Jude and Nora with my husband Greg. If we’re not swimming in our pool, we’re exploring a new park, catching live music when we can, and enjoying a cocktail on a patio.
Contact Natalie on the web:
Website: www.natalieandrusiak.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalieandrusiak/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalieandrusiakphoto/
Email: hello@natalieandrusiak.com
