Daily Inspiration: Meet Natalia Gonzalez Garzon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalia Gonzalez Garzon.

Hi Natalia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I started with the role of journalism in my country, Colombia, where this profession encompasses different narratives and a spectrum of diverse perspectives. In this field, reality turns into fiction, creating a fusion with the audiovisual representation of an actual event, accompanied by social and cultural movements. One aspect that intrigued me was sexual comedy, which I saw as a window into human insecurities and community dynamics. Through this lens, I found a space for self-discovery and shared experiences despite the societal taboos surrounding sexuality. Driven to explore these themes further, I turned to Cinematography as a medium of expression. Here, I aim to delve into the semiotics of storytelling, merging with journalism’s mandate to inform and entertain but create a visual narrative, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of our shared human experience. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While the road has been rocky at times, filled with uncertainties and setbacks, I’ve never wavered in my commitment to my passion for cinema. Each obstacle I’ve faced has only strengthened my resolve and fueled my determination to succeed. Through perseverance and resilience, I’ve continued to push forward, knowing that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. In life, many prejudices and labels can separate me from who I am, and cinema is a sea of possibilities that never ceases to surprise me. Pursuing an artistic career was a deeply personal decision, driven by a promise I made to myself long ago. I refused to let fear hold me back from pursuing my childhood dreams. I was determined to live a life free of regrets, striving to leave a legacy of courage and determination rather than wondering “what if.” 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in Photography and Cinematography, creating videos and photos for various projects. Currently based at the Melrose Center, known for fostering creativity and innovation, I excel in camera work and storytelling across short films, music videos, and feature films through collaborations in the Film and Cinema industry. 

I take pride in mastering technology to craft compelling narratives, incorporating VFX and various camera equipment to enhance storytelling. While I’ve worked with a range of cameras for different purposes, my crew and I ensure optimal exposure, elevating projects to a professional standard. 

Filmmaking and Video Production are my expertise, assisting Directors, Producers, Companies, and Artists in achieving their vision while leveraging my experience and technological capabilities. As a storyteller, I’m particularly drawn to sexually comedic narratives and diverse representations, tapping into the human fascination with this genre to create compelling and unconventional stories, which has become a hallmark of my work. 

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
COVID-19 presented challenges for everybody and opportunities for me to grow, be resilient, and reflect. I emphasized the importance of prioritizing health. I had to reevaluate my lifestyle, focus on health, and build networks to start new projects and new goals that, with time, disappeared, but I created them; also, some family members died, and some friends died; it was shocking the way close people started dying. It reminds me of the importance of little moments with loved ones and our life goals.  

I wanted to thank my parents, brother, partner, and friends for the support they always give me.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://Nataliagonzalezgarzon.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natgongar_film?igsh=bXZmazB0YnkzM2N2
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-gonzalez-filmmaker-journalist-a2b174121/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt2HEtdR_vEc9tiqKlBUD6g
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13760592/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_4_tt_0_nm_8_q_natalia%2520gonza

Image Credits
Mario Rangel Hurtado
Gabriel Soltren