The Artistry Behind Every Frame | Photographer natsu | ISSUE #22

‘ISSUE’ explores the sensibilities and thought processes of creators from around the globe, serving as a catalyst for new inspiration. In ISSUE #22, we introduce photographer natsu, the official curator of the cizucu photo contest “Winter Magic,” who has over ten years of experience and is active in numerous creative communities.

For over a decade, natsu has been dedicated to photography. Her Instagram account boasts an astonishing 19,000 photo posts—a number that speaks volumes. To reach 19,000 posts in ten years, one would need to upload five photos every single day. While digitalization has made things more convenient, few can sustain such a prolific output. Harnessing the advantages of digital cameras, natsu’s tireless commitment reveals a deep love for photography and a steadfast, enduring character.

Like many, natsu began by posting photos taken with her smartphone on Instagram. As an aside, when Instagram first launched, it was more akin to a photo diary, quite different from the high-quality photography platform it is today.

As her followers gradually transitioned to DSLR cameras, natsu’s interest in photography deepened. Her first camera was an entry-level Nikon, followed by experimenting with Pentax, Fujifilm, Canon, and ultimately settling on the SONY α7 IV. Experiencing the unique color profiles and characteristics of each brand, she found SONY’s lightweight yet highly precise capabilities to be the perfect fit.

Over the past ten years, natsu has explored a wide range of photographic genres. Starting with documentary shots of daily life, she moved through landscapes, trains, flowers, and more, eventually focusing her practice on landscape photography.

In the early days, natsu attended photography classes to learn the basics of technique and composition. However, much of her practical skill was honed through interactions on Instagram and other communities, as well as hands-on experience. Advice from seasoned photographers has been particularly influential in her growth. “There’s so much to learn from other photographers. Meeting different photographers on location has broadened my perspective,” natsu reflects. She often finds inspiration for shooting locations from photographers’ posts on Instagram and actively goes on location scouting, especially on weekends.

Each location scouting trip brings encounters with photographers from new genres, guiding her to future destinations. natsu’s story conveys a positive cycle of discovery and enjoyment in her creative journey.

Winter photography presents unique challenges due to weather conditions, but natsu invests tremendous effort to capture the beauty of snow and frost. Weather forecasts are often unreliable, and trekking through snowy mountains or waiting in the biting cold for the perfect moment is no small feat. “The light of sunrise or sunset after overcoming such hardships is truly breathtaking,” natsu shares. Cold-weather precautions are essential, and she recounts the retro charm of meeting an elderly photographer using a Hakukin hand warmer.

This is why winter’s most beautiful photographs are imbued with the photographer’s intent as well as their aesthetic. natsu is often drawn to works where the effort of the photographer is palpable. She herself strives to create images that spark curiosity and inspire viewers to visit new places. Winter photography, in particular, has the power to evoke stories and awaken a sense of adventure in its audience.

We hope this interview with natsu has provided fresh inspiration for your own photography or for appreciating the works submitted to the “Winter Magic” photo contest. Enjoy the behind-the-scenes stories of active photographers like natsu, and may your own photographic journey be equally rewarding.

(cover image by natsu)