Today we’d like to introduce you to Nazara Matos.
Hi Nazara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My interest in photography began at an early age. I grew up in a family that placed little value on material possessions, which meant we had very few photos of ourselves. The few photo albums we did have were deeply treasured. I would spend hours poring over those images, each one transporting me back in time to scents, sounds, and memories of my younger self.
When I started college, I was overwhelmed by the pressure of choosing a major. Unsure of which path to take, I signed up for a photography class. The sounds and smells of the darkroom were intoxicating. I was instantly captivated by the magic of watching an image develop before my eyes. I was hooked. For the next couple of years, I took every photography class my college offered.
Just before graduation, an opportunity to move to California came along, and I took it. I spent the next year exploring the West Coast and working in the restaurant industry. I eventually fell in love, moved back to the Midwest, got married—and didn’t touch my camera for nearly five years.
When I became pregnant with my first child, I craved a creative outlet. Instead of stepping behind the lens, I stepped in front of it, modeling maternity wear for Target. That experience reminded me how much I missed photography. I returned to school to pursue a degree in Studio Arts and Youth Studies at Metropolitan State University.
As parenting responsibilities increased, I once again set my camera aside. After the birth of my second child, photography all but disappeared from my life. Raising two children was both rewarding and challenging. Our household income was often stretched thin. In an effort to help support our family, I picked up my camera once again and began searching for photography work.
I started as an assistant to a wedding photographer, traveling across the Midwest documenting love stories. While the income helped, the work didn’t fully satisfy my creative spirit. I began submitting my own images to publications—and to my delight, two were selected as Photo of the Day by the Smithsonian Magazine’s online publication. Metropolitan State University also purchased one of my photos for their permanent collection.
Buoyed by this recognition, I launched my own family photography business. I continued submitting work to exhibitions and publications. I was honored to be accepted into the Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibit two years in a row and am a two-time recipient of the Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individuals Grant.
Today, while photography still isn’t my primary source of income—I also work full-time for a local nonprofit—I no longer keep my camera tucked away in the back of a closet. I’m actively creating new images, capturing moments for both my own family album and for the families who invite me into their lives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Creative disconnect: Despite my love for photography, life circumstances repeatedly pulled you away from it, leaving me creatively unfulfilled at times.
Life Circumstances:
Frequent transitions: Moving to California, then back to the Midwest, getting married, starting a family—all these major life events required adaptation and often deprioritized my creative pursuits.
Raising children: Becoming a parent brought immense joy but also demanded time, energy, and sacrifice—especially of my personal and artistic ambitions.
Financial strain: With a growing family and tight finances, I was motivated to monetize my skills, but it came with its own pressures and trade-offs.
Professional/Creative Struggles:
Balancing creativity with work: My initial photography jobs—like assisting at weddings—helped financially but didn’t fully satisfy my artistic voice.
Rebuilding my career: After long breaks from photography, I had to find the confidence and opportunities to re-enter the field and make my mark again.
Establishing credibility: Submitting my work and waiting for validation (like through Smithsonian or the MN State Fair) required vulnerability and persistence.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in family photography, with a focus on capturing individuals as they truly are. My work is known for its unposed, authentic moments—images that reflect real connection, emotion, and personality. I have a natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life, helping them feel at ease in front of the camera. This connection allows me to document the genuine beauty in everyday moments, creating images that feel both timeless and true.
Any big plans?
Moving forward in my photography career, I’m excited to focus on projects that center community building and advocacy. Most recently, I created a series of images highlighting the diversity and beauty of the people who live and work in the neighborhoods surrounding George Floyd Square. This project, titled Four Corners: Community Building at George Floyd Square, was funded through the Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individuals Grant. The opening reception was held at Listen 2 Us Studios, and the exhibition will be on display at Hennepin County Medical Center in May 2025.
I’m also thrilled to be attending a photography retreat at Ghost Ranch in New Mexico, where I’ll have the opportunity to learn from renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz. These experiences are helping me deepen both my creative vision and my commitment to storytelling that uplifts and connects communities.
Pricing:
- Photoshoots start at $350
- Fine art prints available by request and range from $450-$1,200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nazaraphotography.com
- Instagram: @nazaraphoto
- Facebook: @nazaraphotography
