The world of photography has witnessed a seismic shift in recent years with the emergence of social media platforms. In the midst of this digital revolution, we had the privilege to sit down with Rachel Canale, an upcoming photographer who is making waves in the industry by leveraging the power of TikTok. With an impressive portfolio and a dedicated following, Rachel has managed to captivate audiences worldwide and redefine the way photography is shared and appreciated. In this exclusive interview, we delve into her journey, accomplishments, and the impact of TikTok on her career.
Q: Rachel, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us about your background and how you discovered your passion for photography?
A: Thank you for having me! My journey in photography began at a young age. I grew up on a Strawberry farm in the Yarra Valley where I would take photos of landscapes and animals as a hobby. Overtime I realised I could turn it into a career and that’s what I did at 16 years old when I started my business.
Q: You have gained significant attention through TikTok. How did you recognise the potential of the platform and decide to incorporate it into your photography?
A: TikTok has revolutionised the way content is consumed and shared. I noticed the platform’s explosive growth and engagement early 2020 when a friend of mine blew up on the platform. I knew I would regret it if I didn’t give it a go myself. I saw an opportunity to showcase my work to a worldwide audience and I just went for it! I started sharing short videos and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my photoshoots. The response was overwhelming, and it motivated me to continue exploring the possibilities that TikTok offers.
Q: What are some of your biggest accomplishments as a photographer, particularly in relation to your TikTok presence?
A: My account hitting 1 million followers would definitely be up there! It’s crazy to think that 1,000,000 people have decided to press ‘follow’ because they want to see more of my work.
Additionally, I had my first billboard this year in February which was in New York (Times Square). I have my own filter editing app, Pocket Studio, which I launched during the Covid lockdowns. And I have recently opened my own studio in Melbourne which has always been a dream of mine!
Q: How do you balance the demands of creating captivating TikTok content with your dedication to your photography craft?
A: It can be a challenge at times, but I believe it’s crucial to strike a balance. I prioritise my photography projects and ensure that the quality of my work remains uncompromised. TikTok has become an extension of my creative process, allowing me to share snippets of my journey while still dedicating significant time to honing my skills and pursuing personal projects.
I also believe it has developed my photography style in a positive way. I have been challenged to get more creative with my photo shoots to be able to keep creating interesting content. It has forced me to really see where my creativity can take me.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to utilise TikTok as a platform for their work?
A: My advice would be to embrace authenticity and showcase your unique perspective. Be consistent in your content creation, engage with your audience, and never be afraid to experiment with new ideas.
