Good People of vitruta: Deniz Bulutsuz

Deniz, I was actually writing an email to send you right before we met—this is how connected we are in daily life! But this meeting is special because I'll be asking questions that will let us get to know you even better. :) Let’s start with the first question: Who is Deniz Bulutsuz? What do you do, how did it all start, and where are you headed?

I’m a graduate of Galatasaray University’s French Language and Literature program. What I do now is actually quite unrelated to my studies. But considering my mother encouraged me to learn French since the second grade, it was a pretty logical choice. She wanted me to learn a Latin-based language, and—knowing I’d already be fluent in English—thought it would make it easier for me to adapt to other languages like Spanish or Italian. My uncle, a Saint Joseph alumnus, suggested Küçük Prens, a French-speaking school, and so began my long journey with the French language.

How did university lead you down the path to your current career?

When I started university, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to be in a social environment, connecting with people. I also had a passion for art and fashion and have always been someone who pays close attention to style. These interests eventually led me to internships at magazines, where I was introduced to the world of publishing. Meeting Aslı Özbey and getting my first work experience at modakariyer.com were key early milestones in my career. She recognized my potential in social media and offered me opportunities to lead various trainings. From there, I joined Vogue & GQ. For nearly three years, I worked on projects within the magazine that functioned like an event, advertising, and digital agency, and I managed GQ's social media. At the end of 2019, Ondakka was born and became my main focus. Today, I still conduct social media training and write for GQ.

Could you share the story of how Ondakka was founded?

I co-founded Ondakka with my friend Erdem Oraylı. We met through mutual friends, and being in the same industry brought us closer together. Erdem also has a background in magazines and later worked at one of Turkey’s top fashion PR firms, L’Appart. While we were both freelancing on various projects, a social media project led us to start a company together, and that’s how Ondakka was born. Now, we provide social media services and organize events for some fantastic brands we love, and we truly enjoy the work!

I know you regularly give social media training. Some people are saying they feel worn out or lost on Instagram lately. As an expert in this field, could you share your perspective on Instagram?

I think Instagram is an incredible reservoir of content. The focus should be on how we can make the best of it. The first step is undoubtedly following accounts, people, and institutions that inspire, nourish, and steer you toward positive things. Personally, I gain a lot from social media—so many inspiring posts come my way. And there’s no denying its power in terms of connection; at the end of the day, Instagram, despite its criticisms, allows you to connect with a brand or person you want to reach as easily as a well-crafted message.

Your expertise in social media clearly shines through on your own account as well. Is it difficult to create those posts?

It’s actually second nature now. My lines, edits, they all take just a few seconds for me. People are often surprised when they see how quickly I can pull it off. :) But, of course, I am meticulous with the photos. And this is why I don’t post too often—I find it challenging to spend hours taking photos or posing. I used to have a blog, but it didn’t last long because I didn’t enjoy getting photographed. I think my eye for social media comes naturally, and I owe my sense of aesthetics to my mom, which I think is what makes it stand out.

If you could give one simple piece of advice to people who want to share posts they’re more proud of on social media, what would it be?

Since social media, especially Instagram, is so visual, I’d suggest taking a moment to actually look at the photo before posting. Check if everything is in place, if the table is neat, if everything looks good. At the end of the day, we’re not saving the world, but a bit of care and attention makes everything we do in life that much more special.

Finally, since I know you love reading and watching movies, let’s end the interview with one recommendation for each. :)

Of course! I’d recommend Shakespeare and Company by Sylvia Beach to anyone who loves books and enjoys spending time in bookstores. It tells the story of the Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris, narrated by the family who founded it. It’s truly delightful!

As for a movie, I’d say Paolo Sorrentino’s La Grande Bellezza! It’s a film that stirs different emotions within me every time I watch it.