Photographer Natiya

The Zen Student

2012-01-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

Yoga in South Central: the Monarchs After School Program,

Directed by your truly, Ms. Natiya Guin

Coming Soon: Our amazing students will be working with famous Los Angeles based yoga teachers to further their ability to do yoga, to breath, and to help prepare for life filled with bliss. I will photographing this wonderful program with the help of our photo club!

Yordy, Salutatorian, alumni, upcoming model, and friend!

2011-12-24T08:26:00.000-08:00

Iv'e written about Yordy before. My fabulous AJR student who graduated at the top of his class, and who I could not be more proud of. He is now an adopted member of the family and my photo assistant.

Please keep in mind that when you hire me or purchase images from my portfolio, you are supporting the talented youth that I am lucky enough to know and work with.

Yordy and I have two huge projects on the horizon: We updated his portfolio this week because he had an interview with a large agency on Wednesday...when we know the result I will let you know! Also, BCBG is hiring for a full-time in house Photography Director and not only does this career have my name all over it, Yordy has actually met the founder of BCBG when he was interning with the Academy of Business Leadership. I applied online but am hoping to be connected personally to the amazing company and it's operator, Max Azria.

Please look up the Academy of Business Leadership Philanthropie's founder, Anna Ouroumian: http://www.goabl.org/

I have supported her Academy from my role at Green Dot Public Schools and she has supported Yordy and hundreds if not thousands of talented inner city young adults. I love a good human interest story...

Happy Everything

My model and friend books Allegra Commercial with her infant

2011-12-24T08:17:00.000-08:00

Phoenix came into my life just before Bettie was born and we became instant friends for many reasons, including our love of modeling and photography, and our roles as working moms! The night we met I talked her ear off about how to prepare for Bettie's arrival and when and how to go back to work once they were both settled.

In the short time we have known each other Phoenix has become a mom, she and her daughter booked a National Commercial (the above photo I took got them their audition but they wowed the casting directors!), we have shared birthday cakes, Hawaiian Tropic stories, and even served papers in Hollywood together! I can't wait to see what we do next...with our beautiful daughters along side us!

Phoenix and Bettie even helped Kai and I become models at Expecting Models. Please visit our portfolios as well as Phoenix and Betties' at www.expectingmodels.com

Phoenix and her darling daughter are also on my website under "expecting" (ironically)

Happy Holidays!

Community Partnerships

2011-10-12T15:28:00.001-07:00

Working in education is often a thankless job. We complain about the pay, the hours, the pink slips...and we start to ask ourselves on a daily basis why we went into this career...but nearly everyday, at least for myself, a student reminds me of two things:

1. that he or she is the future 2. that I can help to make their future better and brighter.

What in all the world could be more rewarding?

Thank you to the community partners who have helped me to offer great opportunities to our students on a regular basis:

Grammy Foundation

NBC Universal Group

New York Film Academy

Tomiko Fraser/Lupus Foundation

Our Beautiful Struggle

2011-10-06T16:23:00.000-07:00

I created Unbound Photography because of two major events: the completion of "UNbound" the Coffee Table book produced by Top Model Tomiko Fraser, and because of a student who inspired me greatly, and who is faced with challenges he should never have to endure.

Completing UNbound was an invigorating accomplishment in my life, partly because it was my first full length photography book, partly because the stories of the 40 women brought me to tears, and mostly because I was 9 months pregnant and we completed all the photography in three 18 hour days. Creating this inspiring book with my friend, model and philanthropist Tomiko Fraser helped me to realize that despite any obstacles I have come up against in my life, I will always rise above adversity. I will thrive.

A famous photographer told me when I was twenty one years old that I should not pursue a career in photography because "making it" is as difficult as becoming a famous actor. I was told that since I was not raised with a great deal of money and that my family couldn't support me while I paved my way throughout the thousands of talented photographers in Los Angeles, that I should choose a career with more certainty. I listened to this famed photographer in that I went back to school for my Master's Degree (but I never stopped taking pictures) and began working as a science teacher in East LA. I could not thank him more for pushing me in this direction because I learned that I am even more passionate about the rights of children to a safe place to learn and well rounded education than I am about pictures. I don't agree with the famous photographers push to a career that was not my area, but I'm grateful that the direction he sent me on ended up bringing me back to photography but in a way that made my work mea more. Using photography to teach students combines my goals....and now I take pictures that support youth in creating their dreams.

The second reason I created UNbound photography was because a student who I have worked with over his career at Animo Jackie Robinson High School in South Central Los Angeles. He was the Salutatorian of his graduating class, he created the Gay Straight Alliance at our school and nearly single handedly fundraised for our first Awareness Carnival,and he is my daughter's adopted uncle. Most importantly, he was accepted to the UC College of his choice and was unable to attend because he could not apply for federal or state loans or grants. He is now trying to find a second rate job and is not attending any college. This one young man is one of the most intelligent and creative people I have ever met. He should be in his freshman year at College, receiving federal and state loans and grants to support him, and instead he is not in school, he has moved to another city away from is family and friends, and is barely getting by.

I have heard too many similar stories and now I have lived this story by having someone close to me be oppressed by Federal and State law. My student was brought to California illegally as child. This was not his decision and yet his future is on hold, and his fate uncertain, for decisions not made by him and by laws which hurt him.

UNbound Photography teaches all youth who want to learn the skill of photography for enrichment or as a means to earn money. We raise funds to support undocumented students with their dreams of College.

This Fall, we are creating our first book entitled, "Our Beautiful Struggle" in which 100% of proceeds will go to grants for our recent alumni and current seniors who do not qualify for student loans because they do not have Social Security Cards. The proceeds will be used for buying books, supplies, and with enough support, paying for classes and dorms for these amazing students.

2011-04-25T17:52:00.001-07:00

Look at the amazing talent I discovered while teaching Photo Club on Friday afternoons at AJR. Twins Jimmy and William...hello Teen Vogue!

...and to top it off, they aren't just fashionable, gorgeous kids. They are good students, and unbelievably respectful to me and the other teachers. Have a mentioned lately that I absolutely love what I do?!

Natiya

2011-04-06T10:34:00.000-07:00

Our students produced a 1950's version of the Crucible at AJR in South Central Los Angeles that had me believing I was watching a College Level performance. From the acting, focus, and passion to the dedication of Ms. Kopera, Jimmy Walsh, the Monarch After School Program, this play made our School and our Community proud.

I can't wait to see where the Talent of these bright young stars takes them next!

This was a wonderful experience for me because I not only got to help create and support the new Drama Club and the first ever full length play at our school, I also got to bring in some of my producing and directing past by creating the lighting department and aiding in many ways behind the scenes. Without my team, Laura and Miguel, the Play would not have had nearly as much support. It takes a village!

There were talent agents in the audience which means this is only the beginning for some of our High School Thespians. Youtube video coming soon...

2011-04-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

Good morning photography and education lovers!

From now on I will host my AJR related posts on our Green Dot blog site and youtube pages:

Blog: http://www.tumblr.com follow:animostudents

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com follow: animostudents

For those of you who don't know, I split my time between my beautiful daughter, my photography business, and working with my amazing students in South Central Los Angeles.

I can't imagine not spending my days with these amazing and talented young people. They inspire me contstantly. Watch our videos to see why!

Philly in the Fall

2010-12-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Bobby Buoncristiano shows this Season's looks with style and scruff. Always a joy to work with one of my favorite people, and a truly phenomenal model. Look for these in an editorial soon!

UNbound - Book Release

2010-10-20T15:27:00.000-07:00

I photographed 40 amazing women for Tomiko Fraser's book, UNbound. It was an absolute honor to provide all the images for this important and beautifully inspiring Coffee Table book. I am forever changed by the stories of these women and by the opportunity to work with and spend time with them.

Tomiko is not only a super model and role model, she is a spokeswoman for the Lupis Foundation of America and will be making a personal donation toward the philanthropy from each book sale.

Please visit my website for a selection of images from the book. www.natiya.com

To order your copy please visit www.tomikosgoddessgathering.com or visit Tomiko Fraser on facebook

* Don't forget to tell Tomiko ( in the message section of paypal) you would like her to sign the book for you.

Latest shoot with Daddy, Robert Buoncristiano

2010-09-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

Our most recent shoot was published on malefitnessmodels.net

These images were taken directly after Bobby flew from Philadelphia to LAX. He had five minutes to prepare due to the setting sun. I was 40 weeks pregnant. I love my job, never a dull moment...and I love working with Bobby not only because he is a gorgeous model but because of his ease, flexibility, and ability to turn out images like these with little rest and little time to prepare. He is true professional.

Bobby is amazing to work with and I look forward to our next shoot, coming in October.

Please visit:

http://malefitnessmodels.net/natiyaguin-robertb.html

Published copy:

I was browsing through the men’s board of the Web 2.0 modeling agency CSA Models Australia and International and the photos of Robert J. Buoncristiano caught my eye. This sharp looking his ad reminds me of Wolverine, a man with a blend of being dangerous while still being sexy. I was told he’s an extremely nice guy and after a short phone interview with him, I have learned why this Philadelphia-based personal trainer and highly-experienced male fitness model has a longstanding career in a very competitive industry. We’ll go into that next time. Huge thanks to the talent of Natiya Guin for this beautiful photo set.

Baby

2010-09-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

In the last two weeks I have wrapped up a glorious Book project entitled UNbound with Tomiko Fraser (images approved for promotion to be shown soon), photographed my boyfriend whose images have since been published (now that is a quick turn around), and I have birthed the most amazing baby I have ever seen (yes, I am biased but see for yourself).

We welcomed Kailee Anne Buoncristiano into the world at 8:23 pm on Saturday evening. She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces, and was 21 1/2 inches long. In other words, we think she will be tall like her Daddy. We also think she may be the next Gerber Baby!

I am completely in love with Kailee and am grateful for her wonderful health, her amazing spirit, and her love of long naps (another trait inherited from Dad).

New Studio!

2010-04-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

I recently moved studio locations to the beautiful Santa Monica beach. My studio is one block from the ocean which is perfect for combining the use of location and studio shooting in one sitting.

I am offering half off my rates for the remainder of April. Slots are filling fast so please call or email me to book your shoot.

Rates reduced from $125 per hour (3 hour minimum) to $62 per hour (3 hour minimum).

Mahalo!

Family

2010-04-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

Today I found out I am having a baby girl. I had four of my dearest friends with me. We laughed, we rehearsed for my friends acting class in the waiting room and the Doctor let all five us in my room despite the two people rule. It was joyful, silly, and wonderful!

Yesterday I spent with my Grandparents. We laughed, we reminisced, and we looked forward to either buying tutu's or little skater shoes...little pink tutu it is.

Last week I shot a full portfolio for my baby cousin: Jacquelin Rose. Those are the best shoots! I am blessed to have a wonderful family, amazing friends, and to get to take pictures of people I love and admire.

I hope you also have people in your life who inspire you beyond words, and lift you up even in the most trying of times.

Bobby

2010-03-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

This image was taken during an impromptu shoot. Every other shoot I had planned while Bobby was here from Philly got rained out. Hard, crazy, sideways rain. I know we can't handle weather here in L.A. but it was actually very intense....for us.

I had reserved a bungalow at the Viceroy in Palm Springs to showcase Bobby's James Dean appeal (and to have some fun in one of my favorite getaway towns). The storm was so terrible I canceled the shoot. I was a bit sad about the loss until we decided to take some images in my studio one afternoon and got the attached image.

There are a few reasons why I love shooting Bobby.

1. It's the only time he stops talking (I love East Coast men but they have a story for everything, they take up all the space in the room).

2. He can smile, laugh, look like he is going to cry...all in a bout thirty seconds. He is an absolute natural in front of the camera.

3. He is sweet, he makes me laugh, and I love being around him. I can't say I have felt this way about many, or even few, of the male models I have worked with in the past.

Time for yoga now, before I begin "Hundred Dollar Head shot Day", my largest discounted series of shoots all year. I will make sure and share.

Natiya

Teaching and photography

2010-03-06T13:04:00.001-08:00

When I decided to Direct the After School Program at Animo Jackie Robinson, an inner city Charter High School, I was concerned that my dedication to the students would take away from my photography career. I couldn't have been more mistaken.
My Photo Club kids assist me on my weekend shoots now, not because I want free labor, but because they love it and learn a great deal from being on set. We have head-shot day once a month at school and I either take pictures for all my students who are aspiring actors, directors, and musicians, or I teach my aspiring photographers how to take the images themselves. I have seen professional quality work from fifteen year old kids. Not only do these kids inspire me, they keep me on my toes!
I sat at a brunch with good friends (most of which are on my website) last Saturday and talked about my kids, how impressed I am with them, what they have taught me, and before I knew it Tomiko and I were planning my next table photography book. I can't tell you what the subject matter is just yet, but I can say that my students inspired the creative process, and they will be an integral part of the project, every step of the way.

Today I remind myself to stop and smell the roses, take time to do something good for a child, and know that in doing for others we are doing for ourselves as well. I gave my yoga mat to a homeless man sleeping on my campus this morning. His smile made my day. What a beautiful smile it was!

Natiya

Pictures in our minds

2009-07-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

Taking a week off to be with my dearest friend, my grandmother, Mau Mau. I look forward to the drive to Sonora every six months or so when I can take a break from L.A. and make my way up the 99 and then drive on some no name windy road for anothether few hours. There is nothing to do up here...perfect.

I stare at humming birds and deer for hours, and count down the time till I feed the horse and its "cocktail hour". I wait patiently for Mau Mau to make her famous egg salad and pot roast (not together) and I watch Bob (grammas younger, motor cycle riding boyfriend) make tools on this 2000 pound contraption out in the barn. I have been here six days and my life in L.A....the posh photoshoots, high powered lunches, and talks of fame, marketing, and first class flights all make me laugh. Yes, L.A. is the land of dreams. Yes, I love being a photographer and having exciting things to do, famous and up and comers to shoot in beautiful locations, I wouldn't give up my dreams and my work for the world...but right now, all I want to do is sign off and go play Boggle with my grandma while she tells me stories about the good old days as she cracks dirty jokes that make me blush.

Amazing Models

2009-05-19T10:23:00.002-07:00

Sometimes I wish I had a biography for each of the models on my website. I am blessed to have a portfolio full of amazing people, who range from actors, super models, moms, Lawyers (modeling on the side), eco friendly entrepenuers etc. Working with some of these men and women have provided me with my dearest friendships, and most exciting and exhilirating work.

Stephanie Paul is an Actor, Comedian, and gorgeous model. You will see her gracing nearly every section of my portfolio, and staring in the "focus" section. We met on a shoot/yoga retreat in Costa Rica two years ago. We adored each other so much that we extended our trips to stay in the rainforest together; taking hundreds of images, hiking many miles, climbing waterfalls, gliding across the canopy, searching for giant snakes, and laughing the entire time. We have worked together since, have become great friends, and have now found ourselves surfing in San Clemente, comedy club hopping in Hollywood, and filming movies together in Ventura. Look her up on imdb.com or google her and you will be highly impressed...but even more, she is one of the most loving people I have ever known. She has a heart of gold and is there for me at every turn, regardless of whether she is filming New Zealand and meeting executives in New York City. A fantastic cook, a dear friend, an absolutely stunning woman!

The hardest job you will ever love

2009-04-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

I decided after directing a documentary on talented inner city kids last year (rymanarts.org) that I needed to be more involved with kids in my community, and that my teaching background and the fact that I grew up in LAUSD's "fine" public school system made me a great candidate for being a teacher.

Well...I knew it would be a hard job...but I honestly thought I could do a great job teaching full time plus starting an after school photography club for my eight graders, and I could still manage my growing photography business in the evenings and on weekends.

I spent a good three months straight with strep throat, the flu, and pneumonia...my personal relationships are hanging on by a thread, coffee and red bull get me through my weekend shoots...and somehow its been the most amazing year of my life. My students are dynamic and inspiring, and I wouldn't trade my time with them, the jokes, the arguments, the learning discovery for anything in the world. I wouldn't mind getting some more sleep and a paycheck that didn't make me laugh...but I knew this was the deal when I signed up to the world's most important job, for the world's slimmest monetary profits. The kids, they make it worth it, and you should see their pictures, what talent!