How Native Light Photography started in Seattle

Sharing more of my story and some behind the scenes so you can see what it might be like to work with me.

Thanks to the documentary talent of Melissa Tumas for helping me share through the art of film making.

Hello, I'm Holli Margell.

Native Light Photography started in 2015 after I decided to focus on serving the business community in the Seattle area. The name is in honor of my Native American heritage as a registered member of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. It also reflects my style of photography - to emulate the native environment. At times that's bright and formal in the studio, at other times, you'll see a very natural light look and feel.

The vision for Native Light Photography is to help make the community stronger through shining the best possible light on others so they can thrive and grow.

When I'm not photographing amazing people and businesses, I spend my time adventuring with my husband, and helping our two kids grow into amazing young adults or relaxing with our two cats.

Holli Margell, Owner

Holli with an i portraits

The Pandemic of 2020 really brought to my attention the fact that I missed working with families. Here's a portrait of our family (including the cats) that I created. Yes, it's inspired by a few Rock n' Roll album covers. And, yes, I took hours to create.


Summer 2021, I decided to revive my love for more creative work with people through holliwithani.com for personal portraits - the kind you print up and hang on your wall to celebrate your life!

Black and White Portrait of Holli's Family by Holli Margell

CareerSpotlight Podcast!


My husband Casey and I started this Podcast in February 2022 - we host conversations with people from a variety of career backgrounds. We find we really enjoy talking to people about how they chose their path and where their lives took them along the way. Learn more at careerspotlightpodcast.com

Testimonials

“Holli was outstanding to work with! My business partner and I needed headshots for our website and since we were clueless on lighting, background, poses, all of it...we turned to Holli. Holli's grasp of the intricacies and nuances to what makes a great photo really highlight her dedication to her craft. Everything from scouting our location to suggesting colors to wear to selecting final photos - she led us gracefully down each path.”

—Behnaz Mansouri

“Holli is SO wonderful to work with!!! She knows her stuff and puts everything in the best light -- literally.”

—Keri D., Marketing Manager

“Holli was amazing to work with! She made me feel so comfortable being in front of the camera and gave me a lot of guidance to get the best shots. Loved my headshots and the natural lighting. Would absolutely recommend her.”

—Jenn Francisco

“How many times can I say it? WOW! I love them.”

—Seahurst Home Inspection

“Holli had a concept and brought it to life for my website. I love my new photos and highly recommend her.”

—Cami Shields MacNamara

“We have had the pleasure of working with Holli for our new website launching soon. Very professional, knowledgeable, and easy to communicate our needs with. Cost was very reasonable for what we needed and how we needed the photos to be shot. I will definitely be calling Holli again as my business grows with employees and changes. Thank you again!”

—Landing Auto Service

“Holli was the perfect choice for our office headshots. Our team would be the first to admit that we typically freeze up in these situations, but Holli put us at ease and made us all look amazing and natural. She is truly an expert and thinks outside the box to get the perfect shot. You won't be disappointed if you choose Native Light!”

—Geoff J., West Seattle Smile Co.