Today we’d like to introduce you to Andriana Nativio.
Andriana, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey with photography began in early childhood. When I was just a little girl, I would sneak into my dad’s art studio in the basement of our house and I’d take his Polaroid camera from its designated shelf. I would create imaginative outfits from tissue paper and wrapping paper for my girl cousins; I’d photograph them wearing the outfits I had created and use up all the film in the process. Later, I’d make little “magazines” with the pictures. Then, at just seven years old, a visit to an Ansel Adams exhibit with my father had a profound impact on me. The striking black-and-white images inspired me to declare, “That’s what I’m gonna do one day!” My dad often recalls this moment as when he first realized I would become a photographer.
What began as playful curiosity has evolved into a deep passion. My early fascination with photography has grown into a lifelong dedication to my craft.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Although photography has always been my passion, the journey hasn’t always been smooth, nor have I expected it to be. Photography requires dedication, effort, and time, and I never anticipated success would come overnight. The process moves in waves, with its own ebbs and flows. I create photographs because it’s an intrinsic part of who I am; it feels like it’s in my blood. When things aren’t going well, I push myself to keep creating, trusting my instincts and the universe to guide me toward what I’m meant to photograph next. I strive to balance working hard and not putting undue pressure on myself.
The most challenging period in my photography career so far has been my graduate school experience while pursuing my MFA at Massachusetts College of Art & Design. The pressure was immense, and I felt lost in my photography until I began focusing on what truly inspired me rather than what I felt pressured to produce. Rediscovering my own creative vision reignited my love for photography and reaffirmed my commitment to it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My primary passion lies in my personal work, particularly my black-and-white photography and the projects that arise from it. I am best known for my portraiture. Currently, I’m immersed in a project titled As We Rest in the Shadows. Over the past five years, this project has explored the lives of two sisters who invited me into their world—places where they bond, rebel, and find solace in nature. This resonates with my own childhood, where I roamed through lakes, woods, and rivers with my girl cousins. My project examines how girls and women are often not afforded the luxury of exploring natural spaces alone without fear of harm. Inspired by fairy tales, urban legends, and narratives from the creation story in Genesis to Little Red Riding Hood, Twin Peaks, and True Crime shows and podcasts, I aim to challenge the fear-based narratives that distance women from nature.
I’m particularly proud of staying true to my vision throughout this project. Despite advice to incorporate elements of danger and fear to intensify the story, my focus has been on creating a space where the sisters connect with nature and each other without external threats, their only fear being time passing. This approach highlights the contrast between the luxury of being free from such fears and the reality that women often face external dangers in natural spaces.
I’m also excited to announce the official launch of my wedding photography services this past month. I deeply enjoy creating beautiful moments for people, and I’m thrilled about this new venture!
You can view my personal photography at AndrianaNativioPhotography.com, and explore my wedding photography services at AndrianaMariaPhotography.com
What does success mean to you?
When I was younger, I envisioned success in photography as getting into galleries, museums, and winning awards. Today, I define success differently. It’s about staying true to my voice and instincts, continuing to create even when it’s challenging. Success now means being content with my own work and knowing that I can make a meaningful impact, however small, with my story and perspective.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.AndrianaNativioPhotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andriananphoto
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/andrianamphoto
Image Credits:
Andriana Nativio
