Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bella Natale. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Bella, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

My background is in marketing and sustainability, so the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on have involved showcasing local food purveyors and understanding their work. I love educating consumers on the importance of supporting local food from environmental, social, and economic perspectives. With food, in particular, consumers are often very removed from where their food comes from and where it goes after disposal. I’m passionate about highlighting all aspects of the supply chain to inspire intention and positive behavior change through my images.

One recent event that was particularly meaningful to me was the Blessing of the Fleet in McClellanville, South Carolina. This event was impactful because I had the chance to speak with multiple shrimp captains about the current state of the shrimping industry and their experiences on the water. They mentioned significant challenges, including shrimp dumping and the lack of consumer awareness surrounding it. Shrimp dumping occurs when foreign producers flood markets with cheaply produced shrimp, often caught under poor working conditions, which undercuts local fishermen. Many consumers are unaware of the chemicals involved with these imported shrimp, and by purchasing them, they are not supporting local industries.

The captains expressed the need for marketing to enhance education and consumer awareness. I was happy to help showcase their issues through imagery, bringing attention to their struggles and the importance of supporting local shrimpers. This project was meaningful to me because it combined my passions for marketing, sustainability, and supporting local communities, and it allowed me to make a tangible impact through my work.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Bella Natale and I am a photographer and the owner of Saltina Graphics. The name “Saltina” combines a few of my favorite words: salt and spartina. My journey into photography began with a passion for storytelling and capturing the authentic beauty of everyday moments. I specialize in candid and natural photography, focusing on genuine interactions and processes. I love connecting with others through their passion projects and interests.

My work is heavily influenced by my commitment to sustainability, particularly within the food system. I aim to showcase the journey from farm to table, highlighting the dedication of local food purveyors. Through my lens, I strive to foster appreciation and awareness for sustainable food production and consumption. By documenting these stories, I hope to inspire others to support local and make more informed choices.

At Saltina Graphics, I offer a range of photography services, including event coverage, individual sessions, and documentary-style shoots. My work often features nature, wildlife, events, and environmental initiatives. I love capturing the essence of events and businesses within these spaces, promoting their missions.

When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll likely find me outdoors, traveling, cooking, playing with animals, or learning new things. I love bringing positive energy to every photoshoot!

What sets me apart is my ability to tell compelling stories through images. My clients appreciate the authenticity and emotional depth of my photos, which help them connect with their audiences on a deeper level. I am proud of the impact my work has had on raising awareness about sustainable practices and local food systems. My images contribute to meaningful conversations and actions.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Starting photography without formal training, I initially faced a lot of imposter syndrome, especially in a city like Charleston with its incredible pool of creatives. However, I quickly began to network with creatives and clients that I valued and aligned with, which was instrumental in my growth. By connecting with these talented individuals and learning from their experiences, I was able to overcome my initial intimidation and gain valuable insights. I effectively communicated my worth during those introductory meetings, which helped build trust and rapport.

Another strategy that significantly boosted my reputation was bartering services. This approach not only allowed me to grow my portfolio, but also helped me establish mutually beneficial relationships with other professionals. By exchanging services, I was able to gain practical experience, showcase my skills, and receive valuable feedback. This collaborative mindset and willingness to support others in the creative community played a vital role in building my reputation.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My primary goal is to dive deeper into local food systems and illuminate unique traditions, experiences, and projects from around the world. I’m especially passionate about showcasing the intricate journeys and authentic stories behind these traditions.

Additionally, I am expanding into the health and wellness retreat space. Yoga is a significant part of my life and I am excited to capture the vulnerable and transformative experiences that occur during retreats. I find great fulfillment in documenting these personal and collective journeys.

Traveling with intention is another driving force behind my work. Whether it’s tackling a major hike or exploring a country on foot, I aim to capture the essence of these purposeful and challenging experiences. Moving forward, I would love to continue documenting such intentional adventures and integrating them into my creative projects.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://saltinagraphics.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltinagraphics/

Image Credits

Saltina Graphics