Meet Natalie Cashon

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Cashon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I’ve always had a natural inclination toward adventure and seeking out experiences that push the boundaries of my comfort zone. For me it’s about embracing the unknown, confronting fear, and discovering what I’m truly capable of.

I hate being afraid of things, as does anyone, but instead of avoiding the things that scare me, I feel gravitated towards it. I love a challenge and to prove to myself that I can do it, even if I’m scared.

Growing up I attended a private school until eighth grade so I was in a more sheltered environment most of my life. I found myself drawn to moments where I could break free from the norm, take risks, and feel alive in ways that are deeply fulfilling. For me that’s channeling that energy through photography, videography, baking even, but most importantly embracing my character to my fullest potential, internally and externally.

Those experiences remind me of the importance of being present, embracing challenges, and pushing myself to grow. That same drive to explore and test limits carries over into other areas of my life, whether it’s taking on a new challenge at work or stepping into the unfamiliar with confidence. Every leap I’ve taken, whether I nailed it or fell flat, which trust me happens often but it has added to my confidence and drive. To me, risk is necessary if I want to live fully and build the life I envision!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is rooted in storytelling through photography and travel content, with a focus on capturing the natural beauty of the world and creating immersive visuals for hotels, Airbnbs, and destinations. What sets me apart is my experimental approach—I love to push creative boundaries, blending candid moments with unique perspectives that make viewers feel like they’re part of the journey.

Right now, I’m in the exciting process of rebranding and remaking my portfolio to better reflect my vision and growth as an artist. This new chapter is an opportunity to showcase my passion for exploration and my dedication to delivering authentic, inspiring content. I’m excited about expanding my work into nature-based travel content and collaborating with brands to bring their spaces and stories to life through my lens.

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. As a beginner, I’ve faced challenges like self-doubt, limited resources, and the uncertainty of building a client base while turning my passion into a profession. Im still learning and growing but with each step, no matter how small, brings me closer to creating the career I’ve envisioned, and I’m embracing the process with determination and an open mind.

Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, building genuine connections, and trusting the process. I want the world to know that my work isn’t just about photography; it’s about creating meaningful experiences that inspire others to explore, connect, and see the beauty in their surroundings. My story is one of passion, perseverance, and a love for capturing the extraordinary in the everyday.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, I’d plan an unforgettable week-long trip to San Diego, California—one of my favorite places to explore! Here’s how our itinerary would look:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Vibes
We’d kick things off by hitting Mission Beach to soak up the sun, dip our toes in the Pacific, and enjoy a relaxing start to the week. For dinner, we’d grab some fresh Mediterranean food at a local favorite The Hummus Factory, known for its fresh hummus and variety of Mediterranean dishes like falafel, shawarma, and kebabs(my favorite), offering an authentic and flavorful experience.

Day 2: Surfing Adventures
The ocean is my happy place! So we’d spend the morning surfing in Pacific Beach. Whether it’s catching a wave or just enjoying the salty breeze, it’s the perfect way to connect with the ocean. Afterward, we’d recharge with iced caramel lattes or iced lavender matcha from a cozy café like Better Buzz Coffee.

Day 3: La Jolla Cove and Italian Delights
A visit to La Jolla Cove is a must. It was such a beautiful experience, I felt like I was in a movie! We’d marvel at the seals basking on the rocks and explore the stunning tide pools. For lunch or dinner, we’d treat ourselves to some amazing Italian food at Cesarina or Buona Forchetta, indulging in fresh pasta (another fan favorite) and flavorful sauces!

Day 4: Four-Wheeling in the Desert
We’d rent ATVs and explore the Anza-Borrego Desert, navigating sand dunes and enjoying stunning desert landscapes. I’ve always wanted to do this and one day it will happen!

Day 5: Horseback Riding on the Beach
We’d head to Riding or Walking Horses in San Diego, where we could enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the beach. I’ve dreamed of doing this and hope to experience it one day!

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 want to start by shouting out my amazing parents, Tammy and Chuck Cashon, for their endless sacrifices and unwavering love. You’ve supported me in ways I can never fully repay, but I hope to one day show you how much it means to me. I also want to thank my sister, Courtney Cashon, for being my first inspiration and showing me the beauty of art and passion from such a young age. Watching you pour your heart into your creativity taught me the value of self-expression and dedication. Your talent and drive sparked something in me that continues to grow every day, and I’m so grateful for your influence and the example you set—I wouldn’t be who I am without you. Lastly, to my best friend and soul sister Adyson Mayhall, thank you for your constant encouragement and for always being there for me. You inspire me to be the best version of myself every single day, and I’m so lucky to have you in my life.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalie.cashon/

Other: TikTok : @natcashon