the studio

saltyfaces is a creative studio that captures the essence of ocean-loving individuals, cultures and shares unique stories around the globe. Documenting the work of Initiatives that strive for positive change for their youth, communities and our planet. Making it their mission to inspire, connect and push for a better future.

  • We use photography as a tool for awareness and connection, documenting communities, cultures, and movements with empathy and respect. We approach every session and moment with care, striving to create a safe and comfortable space where everyone can be themselves, while giving visibility to stories that inspire understanding and change.

  • We capture people in real-life situations with honesty and warmth, focusing on natural moments that reflect personality, relationships, and place. Blending authenticity with aesthetics, our images tell stories of belonging, identity, and the beauty of everyday life.

  • We capture the beauty of each individual with softness and compassion, creating images that feel raw, authentic, and natural. Our goal is to reveal the true self in a playful and warm way, celebrating the uniqueness and specialness of every human.

approach

We blend documentary and lifestyle photography, using natural light and genuine interactions to reveal connection, raw beauty, and belonging. Our process is collaborative, empathetic, respectful and shaped by the people and places we work with.

values

We believe in authenticity, respect, and community —celebrating real human stories and surf culture while honouring everything that surrounds us.

impact

We preserve and share surf culture as a unifying force, amplifying the voices of coastal communities and inspiring a deeper connection to the ocean. Through working with NGOs and grassroots initiatives, we use storytelling to support change and bring visibility to projects that matter.

the face behind

Hello, I'm Julia, the founder of saltyfaces studio. A Berlin-based creative and photographer passionate about capturing the human spirit around the ocean: my documentary work has taken me on an incredible journey full of growth, challenges and inspiration and lots of surf. I've had the privilege of empowering individuals through photography and supporting vital social causes. I believe in the power of photography to tell stories that inspire, connect, and make a positive impact.

  • From a young age, I was fascinated by the camera and its ability to capture unique and special moments. While studying graphic design and earning my bachelor's degree in communication design, I had the opportunity to explore photography in greater depth and engage with various aspects of the field.

    What fascinated me at that time was architecture, landscape and street photography. I have been trying to find my voice and subjects that inspired me to develop a style people could associate with me and my work. 

    Surprisingly, a break from photography altered my entire approach. It was during my transformative journey to São Tomé é Príncipe, volunteering  5 Months at SOMA Surf as a Surfbuddy and Photographer, that I rediscovered my passion for the craft and found my niche. I picked up my camera again with renewed enthusiasm and a fresh perspective.

  • My time in São Tomé was a transformative experience in various aspects. It not only reignited my passion for photography and helped me discover parts of myself living surrounded by the ocean. It showed me how important community and taking care of our nature is. This island is full of magic, the culture, the people, the energy and the land ✨

    Documenting the surfers and the vibrant community of Santana was incredibly fulfilling. Witnessing the Strength, resilience, and joy of all individuals, particularly the young women conquering the waves, was truly inspiring.

    This paradise became home, a turning point in my photography career and personal growth. I don’t know if you could experience all these photographs the same way as you can see them here now, without it.

    Grateful for the trust and opportunity to have captured the stories of the surfers and the community and share them with the world. Living, surfing and shooting together created a special bond between us, which made it possible for me to capture those special moments.

clients

Soma surf / São Tomé Surf Club / Surf Ghana / Sankofa Surf Club / Ghana Surfing Federation

features

2023 - Docu Book volume 46 - Short interview and 2 pictures (online) 

2023 - Docu Magazine vol. 46 - 1 picture (print)

2023 - The Bright Continent - Feature on Social Media

2023 - Swiss Photo Club Germany - Feature one picture (Social media)

2023 - Swiss Photo Club Germany - Exhibition Picture “trough my eyes” Top 40

2022/2023 - SOMA Surf Website or somasurf_

  • Julia approached me in Busua asking if I would like to join her for a shoot. As someone who is incredibly camera shy I was hesitant at first. But her gentle, empathetic approach transformed my entire experience. After discussing my nervousness she went out of her way to create a comfortable, judgment-free environment that instantly put me at ease.

    Instead of forcing poses, Julia guided me with kindness and ease, helping me relax and reveal my authentic self. Her professional yet warm technique made me feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera- something I never expected. This resulted in stunning photographs that truly capture my personality.

    For anyone who feels camera-shy, Julia is not just a photographer, but a magical artist who can help you see yourself in a whole new light.

    - Anka