Behind the Lens: A Conversation with Carly Foulkes

Gazing upon the scenes behind her 35mm camera Carly Foulkes, captured the tableaus of nature and friendship featured in The Natural Way campaign photography. In another part of her career, she would have been on the other side of the camera, but through curiosity and exploration, she honed her own craft so she could capture the moments that both inspire and move her. After the trip, we caught up with Foulkes to talk about her experience in La Paz, and what led her path to become a photographer.

That’s a great question—I’d love to say it’s my diet that’s natural, but honestly, that’s only true about half the time! What really keeps me centered is my connection to nature. I’m currently living in Topanga, and being surrounded by trees, wildlife, and wide open sky plays a huge role in my day-to-day peace of mind. Nature has always been important to me, but living somewhere like Topanga has deepened that appreciation.

There’s a stillness and a rhythm out here that reminds me to slow down, breathe, and be present. Whether it’s hearing the wind move through the leaves, spotting a deer on a morning walk, or watching the light shift across the canyon—it all reminds me that there’s something bigger and more grounding than the chaos of daily life.

HOW DO YOU NURTURE YOUR CREATIVE SPIRIT?

I don’t force anything—I listen. I tune in to that quiet voice inside that guides me, gently showing me where I need to go creatively. Inspiration, for me, doesn’t come from chasing it; it comes from being open, from paying attention to what moves me and trusting that instinct.

I also make it a point to constantly immerse myself in art and beauty. Whether I’m visiting galleries, watching films, seeing live performances, or simply taking a hike through nature, these experiences feed my creative spirit. They remind me of the endless ways to feel, to express, to connect. It’s all part of staying inspired—keeping the senses awake and the heart curious.

WHAT IS A NOTABLE AND MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM OUR MOST RECENT TRIP TO LA PAZ?

We woke up early on the second morning, just as the sun began to rise. The light was soft and golden, casting a shimmer over the choppy water. It was one of those moments that already felt special—everyone was gathered at the helm, bundled up with hot drinks in hand, quietly taking in the vastness of the ocean. And then, out of nowhere, a whale breached right in front of us—completely, magnificently out of the water. It was surreal. Time felt like it stood still for a second. I definitely teared up. There was something so powerful, so unexpectedly emotional about witnessing that kind of raw beauty. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.

WHAT'S COMING UP NEXT FOR YOU?

I just wrapped an incredible music video for Nathaniel Rateliff that I line produced and also shot behind-the-scenes film photos for—can’t wait for it to be released soon! It was such a rewarding project to be part of, and I’m really proud of how it came together. Brantley Gutierrez directed, and working with him was an absolute pleasure. On the music side, I’m about to head into the studio with my bandmate to start recording our EP. It’s been a long time coming, and I’m so excited to finally get these songs down and bring them to life.

IF YOU COULD SHARE A TEQUILA WITH ANYONE, DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

Oh man, that’s a tough one—but I think I’d have to go with Cat Stevens. The first time I heard “If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out,” it felt like something clicked deep inside me. Like I already knew him, as if we’d been friends in a past life. There’s such warmth and wisdom in his music—it’s comforting in a way that feels personal. I’d love to share a tequila with him, sit somewhere quiet, and just catch up—like old souls reconnecting after time apart.

Follow Carly on Instagram.

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START IN PHOTOGRAPHY?

Though I didn’t realize it at the time, those early experiments laid the foundation for what would eventually become my career. After spending about 15 years in front of the camera as a model, I made a natural transition to working behind it. I officially began shooting professionally when I was 24 and living in New York City, a place that was as much a muse as it was a backdrop for my growing portfolio.

In many ways, my years as a model doubled as a hands-on education in photography. Every shoot was a masterclass. I made a point of observing the photographers I worked with—how they handled their gear, how they shaped light, how they gave direction, and more importantly, how they told a story. I asked questions constantly. I learned to shoot in manual, studied the technical aspects of composition, and soaked in every bit of wisdom shared on set. It was, quite literally, a paid education.

That blend of early passion and professional experience gave me a unique perspective behind the lens. I understood the rhythm of a shoot, the energy of a subject, and how to create a comfortable environment—because I’d been on the other side. Photography, for me, has always been about connection and curiosity. Whether I’m capturing a portrait, a fleeting moment, or a fine detail, I’m always chasing that same sense of wonder I felt as a kid with my first camera in hand.

YOU'RE A TRUE ALL-AROUND CREATIVE, WHAT LEAD YOU TOWARDS OTHER CREATIVE OUTLETS?

Honestly, it’s never been something I’ve had to think too much about—I just love making things. Creativity feels like a necessity for me, a way to express myself and stay curious. I’m always exploring new ways to communicate through art, whether that’s directing music videos, painting, collaging, or making music with my band, Gracey and Foulkes. I’ve never felt the need to stick to one medium. I like being a Jane of all trades—trying new things, learning as I go, and letting each form of expression feed into the next. At the heart of it, I just follow what excites me. The process itself is what drives me.

WHAT DOES “THE NATURAL WAY” MEAN TO YOU IN YOUR DAILY LIFE?