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

Hi Natrice, can you tell us about an impactful book you’ve read and why you liked it or what impact it had on you?
One of the books that had a major impact on my life was a book I read as a child called Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Thompson. I read it when I was in the 6th grade (on my own, not for a class; I was a bookworm) and it really stuck with me. I loved that book so much I would tell everyone I knew about it (although none of the other kids seemed to really care). Narrated by a nine year old black girl living in Mississippi, the book explores themes of family, racism and the black experience during the Great Depression. I always enjoyed reading as a child but this was one of the first novels that I really fell in love with. It showed me the realities of Black life in America through beautiful storytelling that was very raw, but easy to digest. Thinking back, this was a turning point in my life where, at the age of 12, I began to really immerse myself into my culture. I always searched for books by black authors and fell in love with the work of Virginia Hamilton and Langston Hughes during that period. I would go to the library and come home with like 10 different books every other week. I began reading encyclopedias and reference books to learn more about black leaders, inventors, singers, etc. I wanted to learn more than what was taught in school. I think that book also spearheaded my interest in writing and storytelling, which led me to studying journalism in college, which is where I fell in love with photography and the rest is history! 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a freelance photographer, focusing on portrait, documentary and photojournalism. Aside from my assignment work, my main focus is to use my photography to document the Black experience in America. It’s important to document the world as an archive to leave behind for my family and future generations.

Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way? What are you most proud of?
My journey in the arts hasn’t been an easy one at all. It has been full of ups and downs, financial woes and doubt, but I embrace all of those difficulties because I have extremely tough skin now. All of my experiences have had a direct effect on my art. I have had so many interesting moments and I have met all types of people so as I have grown up, so has my work. I am focused on creating bodies of work that give viewers a glimpse into the lives of others. The arts isn’t easy, and when things aren’t going well, some days it feels like it’s easier to throw in the towel, but I am proud that I have never given up on my dreams and goals and that I am able to wake up everyday and do what I love.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The majority of my fun comes from food and art, so if my friend isn’t into those things, they’re going to have a terrible time! I adore food (check out my food and travel blog www.theculturedlens.com ) so I love going out to eat and drink. A few of my favorite spots are Miss Icey’s Kitchen & Bar (they have a great weekend brunch and a dope DJ that plays hip hop and R&B while you eat); Poor Calvin’s (delicious food with large portions); and Jinya Ramen for absolutely delicious ramen. Petit Marche has great breakfast and lunch and of course, an Atlanta must-visit is Fellini’s Pizza. There are always great art shows happening in the city. Burnaway.com is a great resource for finding out what’s hot in the art streets. My favorite art spots are The High Museum of Art, Arnika Dawkins Gallery (all photography), Hammonds House Museum and Spelman College Museum of Fine Art which has some AMAZING exhibits. 

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My biggest shout out goes to my husband who is my number one supporter. Having the right person by your side is crucial when trying to achieve goals. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner! I also have to shout out the art community here in Atlanta. Being around so many amazing creatives on a regular basis has made me a better photographer. The arts has given me so much, especially beautiful relationships. Being a photographer has blessed me with amazing friends from all walks of life, from other visual artists, to musicians, business owners and art collectors to name a few. So many have trusted me to photograph them throughout the years and I feel honored to have had the opportunity to connect with so many people on an artistic level. These people make me love my life and what I do. Shoutout to you all!

Website: www.natricemiller.com
Instagram: @natrice.miller