Natalie Amrossis future is up in the air.

We spoke with Amrossi to learn about how she works.

You were working in finance before, right?

I graduated college in 2011 with a degree in finance.

I was fortunate enough to land a great job at JP Morgan and moved to Manhattan shortly after.

That was probably the defining moment where I knew I couldnt stay in finance any longer.

I felt that I had enough traction with my freelance photography, and I could make it work.

I talked with a few family members and friends and they were cautious but supportive.

I couldnt be happier despite the challenges that freelance photography comes with.

What apps, software, or tools cant you live without?

Oh man, where to start.

If were talking completely bare bones essential software,Adobe Lightroom.

I am constantly editing photos and even when Im not, I should be.

I must have about 20,000 photos that I havent even looked at yet.

If you catch me on the computer, I most likely have Lightroom open.

I occasionally use Google Docs when I am collaborating with someone.

Whats your workspace setup like?

Whats your best time-saving shortcut or life hack?

My biggest time-saver really only applies to photographers.

I made custom presets that fits my style of photography which help me speed up my editing time.

Ive noticed that beginner and intermediate photographers are intimidated by making their own presets, but its invaluable.

Stay on tasks that are important but not urgent to avoid spinning your wheels or doing damage control.

What sort of tweaks do your custom presets make?

For those who dont know, custom presets are essentially like more complex Instagram filters.

Whats your favorite to-do list manager?

Pen and paper; nothing feels better than crossing out stuff off of my to do list!

Besides your phone and computer, what gadget or tool cant you live without and why?

Other than your camera!

As strange as it is to say: My car.

I became an ambassador for Cadillac last year, and Ive been driving the newCT6.

So tell me about your camera gear.

Whats your go-to camera?

What sort of lenses do you usually use?

I work with strictly Canon gear (even the lenses).

My go-to camera is theCanon 5D Mark III, although I have my eye on the newMark IV.

I primarily use the 24-70mm lens due to its versatility.

Whenever Im out shooting, traveling light is of the essence.

Im really interested in buying the newDJI Mavic Drone.

Those things have really come a long way in such a short time.

Looks like you spend a lot of time in a helicopter.

Tell me about that.

I love seeing the city from above.

After my first flight, I was hooked.

The adrenaline rush of looking down on New York City from the sky cant be explained, only experienced.

Do you happen to know what kind of copter is usually used for this kind of work?

What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else?

Oh man, this is tough.

Its a truly liberating feeling, and I dont plan on letting it fade.

I wouldnt necessarily call it a means to an end.

I would say that its a necessary means of exposure.

While the majority of my exposure comes fromInstagram, it wont allow me to fulfill all of my dreams.

It can certainly aid in the process of getting there, but its not sufficient despite being necessary.

I think that all artists rely on social media as a platform to succeed in one way or another.

As for it being fun and purposeful regardless of work, yes and no.

What do you listen to while you work?

I love music almost as much as I love photography.

TogetherI am one happy girl.

I love listening to everything while I edit.

I listen to just about everything, from 1950’s oldies to blasting Kanye.

If remembering obscene amounts of lyrics were a superpower, Id have a three movie contract with Marvel.

What are you currently reading?

Im currently not reading anything at the moment but I recently re-readThe Alchemist.

Coelho taps into this theme of following ones dreams, and its something that really resonates with me.

I believe following your dreams is a never ending process.

Once you reach a certain goal, its easy to get complacent or stagnant.

Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.

Kinda cliche, but true nonetheless.

How do you recharge?

That last part has been revolutionized by blackout shades I recently installed in my apartment.

Whats your sleep routine like?

Honestly, I lack a regular sleep routine, as I am constantly traveling in different time zones.

Fill in the blank: Id love to see ____ answer these same questions.

Whats the best advice youve ever received?

Everybodys free to wear sunscreen.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.

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