NATIVE: Portraits from Alaska to Oregon of modern indigenous peoples by photographer Kiliii Fish

A behind the scenes look at NATIVE, an ongoing project by photographer Kiliii Fish, to capture portraits of modern indigenous peoples and how they embrace cultural tradition today.

This segment covers shooting around the Pacific Rim.

Evelyn Colley- Yu'pik

Mike Livingston- Unagan Baidarka Builder

Shawl Dancer

CHEMAWA

Menominee Dancer Head on

I’m Kiliii Fish. My roots extend from China to Siberia but I grew up in the United States. Life has blessed me with travels and adventure in both cities and remote wilderness. I’ve been given a unique approach to life and art.

My commercial work consists of still photography and cinematography in portraiture, for the sports and outdoor industry, and for the music industry. I also work with NGOs on issues from indigenous rights to environmental justice.
As an indigenous person I feel close to the land. I try to see the natural world with an educated eye and a deeper understanding which informs my aesthetic. Much of my photography draws from nature, which inspires rich tones and dramatic light. In the end I love to illustrate mystery and drama through storytelling and mythology. My clients are diverse, from REI to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, but they are looking for the same collaboration in telling attention-grabbing and compelling narratives.

 More info and photographs at kiliii.com.