Welcome to YouTube Millionaires, where we profile channels that have recently crossed the one million subscriber mark. There are channels crossing this threshold every week, and each has a story to tell about YouTube success. Read previous installments of YouTube Millionaires here.
When Natalia Taylor entered her first modeling competition at age 12, she was following in some high-heeled family footsteps. Her grandmother, who entered her in the contest and helped her prep, had been a model in the 1950s, and when Taylor showed interest in becoming one too, encouraged her to give it a shot.
Now 23, Taylor has been modeling ever since. Working in the industry has given her confidence, she says, and it’s also given her a wealth of stories to tell. Those stories are how she got her start on YouTube. Back before she was on the video platform, she shared tales from her modeling days with her Instagram and Snapchat followers. Enthralled, they asked her to try out longer-form storytelling — so, in 2015, she booted up a YouTube channel and got to work.
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Since then, Taylor has filled her channel with stories about her life and career, including an in-depth, honest look at what it’s really like to be a model. She doesn’t shy away from openly discussing tough topics, like surviving bad photoshoots, the fact that modeling sometimes sucks, and her thoughts on Victoria’s Secret’s widely criticized comments about transgender models.
Her storytelling skills have garnered her 191,000 subscribers on Instagram, and — of course — more than one million on YouTube. And soon, those million-plus fans will have something brand-new to tune in for…but that’s under wraps for now. Check out our conversation with Taylor below for deets about her YouTube journey and a hint about what’s coming next.
Tubefilter: How does it feel to hit one million subscribers? What do you have to say to your fans?
Natalia Taylor: Reaching our goal of one million subscribers was truly a surreal moment. Aside from the excitement, I really had no idea how to react. Knowing that a million people have seen your channel and chose to subscribe is extremely intimidating. That is why I constantly remind myself to stay accountable, and responsible. I appreciate each and every person who has ever taken the time to watch any of my content.
Tubefilter: Tell us a little about you. Where are you from? What was life like before YouTube?
NT: I’m from the beautiful state of Ohio. Before YouTube, I used to dislike living in the Midwest. I always wanted to move somewhere more exciting! But now that I’ve worked hard and developed a social media following, I love Ohio! It’s so peaceful and private. Just how I like it!
Tubefilter: What made you decide to start a YouTube channel? Did you know what kind of content you wanted to make when you started it, or did your content strategy evolve over time?
NT: I got my start from Instagram, believe it or not! I reached 10,000 followers on Instagram before I even started my YouTube channel! I used to go on Snapchat and Instagram to tell stories about my life. So many people encouraged me to create a YouTube channel, I eventually did. Going into it, I knew I wanted to create a fun, entertaining, safe environment for anyone watching.
Tubefilter: What do you think makes your videos stand out despite all the noise on YouTube?
NT: I believe I create videos that genuinely entertain my demographic. When I brainstorm video ideas, I always ask myself, “Is this topic interesting?” or “Will this video spark someone’s curiosity?” I like to make videos I would enjoy watching.
Tubefilter: What can viewers expect when they tune in to a Natalia Taylor video?
NT: When my viewers tune in, they count on funny entertaining content, that always has a message. My channel really showcases how I live my life. With intention!
Tubefilter: When did you start noticing your audience really picking up? Was there one specific video that attracted a lot of attention? How are you growing your audience?
NT: Every YouTuber will get a viral video here and there. Usually your audience will grow from that. However, I truly think my current subscribers love sharing my videos with their friends and family! I like gaining viewers who know my whole channel, and can’t wait for next Monday’s video!
Tubefilter: What’s your production process like? How long does the average video take you to make, from conception to posting?
NT: Since my channel has matured over time, my production value has definitely increased. I now spend hours on each video, making sure each and every detail is practically perfect. The process can take up to 18 hours in total (concept, filming, editing, etc.).
Tubefilter: You’re also a model, which is something you talk about frequently (and very honestly!) on your channel. How did you become a model? How have your model life and your YouTuber life interwined?
NT: I have been modeling for over 10 years now! My grandmother was a model in the 1950s, and always encouraged me to try it for myself! Being in the industry has really taught me how to be confident in myself. I owe a lot of my internet success to my modeling (and acting) career!
Tubefilter: What’s your favorite part of making content specifically for YouTube?
NT: I love making YouTube content because I was once a viewer/subscriber. I’ve watched this platform grow and evolve over the years into what it is today. It’s so hands on — I love interacting with my audience so directly. It really is a dream come true.
Tubefilter: What’s next for your channel? Any plans looking to the future?
NT: Yes! Always new fun content coming your way! But keep your eyes out — something completely different is coming soon. I’ve spent a lot of time in the recording studio lately!
You can add yourself to the ranks of the Taylor’s more-than-a-million YouTube subscribers at her channel YouTube.com/NataliaTaylor.
