Photo Courtesy of Natalia PhotoSoul
Based in the vibrant city of Seoul, Natalia PhotoSoul has built a creative world where photography and performance meet. Known for her expressive portraits and visually rich storytelling, Natalia doesn’t just capture moments — she lives them. Her work spans across genres, from emotional individual sessions to stylish product and street photography, all carrying her signature sense of depth and soul.
Beyond the lens, Natalia has also appeared in several music videos, bringing her artistic eye into motion.
In this exclusive written interview, Natalia opens up about her journey from photographer to multifaceted artist, how Seoul’s creative scene fuels her passion, and the stories she hopes to tell through every frame — still or moving.
You’re known for your photography in Seoul, but many also recognize you from your appearances in music videos. How did that crossover begin?
I think it all began when I started working in the entertainment industry here in Seoul.
I’m not only a photographer and an actor — I’m also a dancer and a model. I’ve taken part in music videos, K-dramas, and commercial advertisements, both as an actor and a model.
As a dancer, I’ve performed as a backup dancer in music videos and participated in several dance festivals, contests, and programs for dancers and choreographers here in Seoul.
As a photographer, I create my own art projects and also collaborate with companies as an event and product photographer for advertising purposes.
I truly love all of these fields in my life, and I’m always doing my best to grow and give my all in each of them.
What was your very first experience like being in front of the camera instead of behind it?
It was k-drama “Butterfly“, it was released not long ago.
For me it was first time when I was on set and saw all the process of making movie! It’s amazing feeling!
I’m deeply respect all productions team and all actors who created fantastic things!
To be in front of the camera it’s great experience for me as a photographer!
After that I began understand more those whom I photograph.
Yes video it’s a little bit different but meaning is the same! Camera “see” you! 😉
Do you approach visual storytelling differently when you’re photographing versus when you’re acting in a music video?
I think it feels a little different! When I’m photographing, I have full control of the entire process — I know exactly what I want to achieve and how to get it.
But when I’m acting in a music video, I only know the story. That’s why I try to imagine how everything will look in the final version and perform with that in mind.
Still, in both photography and acting, I always try to keep things natural. I’m telling a story when I take photos, and I’m also telling a story when I act in a music video.
How has being a photographer influenced the way you perform or pose in music videos?
I think that for me more easier to imagine whole picture. And I can decide how I can make it better! Because I understand it from another side!
I view every shoot as my own creation! I want to contribute to the final result!
Among the music videos you’ve been part of, is there one that feels most meaningful or memorable to you?
To be honest it’s very difficult to choose one because every music video is special because of artist, because of concept.
But I think I can distinguish 2 music videos.
First it is music video BTTF by NCT DREAM because it is my favourite group and it was my dream to work with them on professional field as an artist!
First it is music video BTTF by NCT DREAM because it is my favourite group and it was my dream to work with them on professional field as an artist!
And that dream become a reality!
It was amazing feeling to work together with them. They’re so talented and worked hard. And I was trying to do my best too! It was meaningful because in final version I was at the beginning of music video!
Second is music video DO IT by STRAY KIDS. That music video is meaningful because it was my first work as a back dancer. I was with Korean crew. I was so happy that I got that possibility!
And again I want to distinguish that when you work with artists as a dancer it’s really another feeling when you’re working as an actor.
It was my dream too to become a back dancer. Hope I’ll have more possibilities for it!
You’ve captured emotion through photography – – how do you express that same emotion when performing in a music video?
As I said previously I’m living in music video. I’m making my own story like I’m making it when I captured photos!
For me it is very important. I’m very emotional person and for me it’s easy to show what I feel in front of camera. I am completely immersed in the filming process!
What’s your creative process when preparing for a visual shoot, whether it’s your own photo project or a video production?
I think at first it is idea. Then… If it is my photo project I prepare references, search locations, thought about outfits and music. Mostly I’m taking photos with music because it helps to create atmosphere which I want to see.
If it is a video – the same. I know the concept and storytelling. And I think what and how I can show what is needed. I watched a lot of movies and music videos. It helped me to understand what I must show!
Seoul has become a global hub for visual and music arts. How does the city inspire your work behind and in front of the camera?
Oh yes, I’m absolutely in love with Seoul! This incredible city inspired me long before I even came here — back when I was still in Russia.
I’ve always admired the kind of art projects created here — the colors, the concepts, the imagery… it’s all truly unbelievable! I remember the first time I decided to create a photo project inspired by NCT DREAM’s ‘Glitch Mode’ and ‘Dream a Dream’.
I was so inspired! I prepared everything myself, and the result turned out fantastic. I think my deep love for Seoul’s artistic vision — across all creative fields — is what truly motivated me to move here.
And now, I’m finally in the place that once inspired me from afar — creating my own art story, both in front of and behind the camera.
Many artists describe your photos as emotional and cinematic. Do you see photography and music videos as two languages of the same art form?
I think yes! Because photography and music videos let us see a story! Both of them can make you feel the full range of emotions that a photograph or music video conveys.
What kind of stories or moods do you love to express visually — both as a photographer and a performer?
As a performer I love to express charismatic and powerful mood… It’s very close to me, to my character and inner feelings.
As a photographer? Mmm… I think most of all I love to show my own vision in different ways! It can be unusual story in frame that I created by myself or something that I saw in the street.
I try to make my photos so that people want to look at them, and not just pass them by. I love to photograph emotional and deep photos with story.
Have you ever collaborated with musicians or directors who influenced your personal photography style?
Yes, it was NCT DREAM! Because of them I stopped to be afraid to create something unusual and new! I’m sooooo grateful for them!
They inspired me a lot and it was great moment when I worked with them on one set! It was really an honour for me!
What are some challenges you’ve faced balancing your photography business with creative opportunities like music videos?
I think mainly it is TIME 🙈
Because both of them needed a lot of time! That’s why sometimes I’m working with photos at night… But to be honest I love to work at night!
For me it’s special time. But… I’m trying to not do this very often because my health is very important!
How do you keep your artistic identity consistent across so many mediums – from photo sessions to visual appearances?
I’m constantly searching for and learning something new and interesting! Anything that inspires me. This could be films, the work of photographers whose style I like, and, of course, music videos, photo shoots for magazines and brands! nowadays, a lot of interesting, unusual concepts have emerged. I find inspiration in everything!
Are there any upcoming music videos or photo projects you’re excited for your followers to see?
Yes, this is music video by STRAY KIDS!
I’m sooooo excited for final version!
I can’t tell more before release date 🙈 but I think that it will be a Masterpiece.
And I’m preparing now one photo project! I have plans to try something new! I think that my followers will love it!
Lastly, what message do you hope people take away when they see your work – whether it’s a photograph, a frame in a music video, or your personal story?
Do what you love and love what you’re doing — that’s the most important thing.
Don’t be afraid to try something new, and always listen to your heart and soul. I once made a huge decision to change my life — from working as an economist in a construction company to becoming a freelance artist — and I have never regretted it.
My creative side was always within me, just hidden in the shadows. But once I decided to follow my passion, everything began to change.
We’re all stronger than we think and capable of doing incredible things. For me, the word ‘impossible’ simply doesn’t exist — and I believe people can see that in everything I do.
Get inspired by Natalia’s creative world — from breathtaking photography to artistic performances.
Follow her journey and explore her portfolio at natalia-photosoul.com
Instagram: @natalia_photosoul
Welcome to City Writer 
Leave a comment