Since I was young, I have been obsessed with the idea of having an ethical, sustainable and mindful life: so far I’ve adopted many environmentally-friendly practices to reduce my carbon footprint, such as eating a plant-based diet; relying more on my feet, bike and public transport than my car; opting for second-hand clothes and accessories…
So you can imagine, as a wedding photographer, how hard it is for me to see all the waste and pollution generated by the wedding industry which is not known for being eco-friendly and sustainable: did you know that the average wedding produces 400 lbs of garbage and 63 tons of CO2? If you think about all the people (both the guests and the staff) and the resources (transportation, flowers, food, dresses, lighting) involved, it’s not hard to believe.
As my values and ethics guide me in everything I do, I’ve decided to do my bit also as a photographer: so besides providing lovely and candid images that my couples will cherish forever, I’ve also implemented ethical and sustainable practices into my photography business.
I love to photograph weddings that are not just about the pretty and shiny things, but take into consideration the people and the planet.
I love to photograph couples – regardless of gender, orientation, race, body size and ability – who don’t see their wedding day as a competition to have the most lavish reception but as a celebration of the love they share between each other and all beings – both human and non-human.
I love to photograph people who do not feel the need to abide by certain traditions or other people’s expectations, but prefer to celebrate their day in a meaningful and honest way by putting their hearts and values first.
If these words resonate with you and if you are looking for a photographer who shares your vision, you’ve come to the right place: contact me by filling in the form at the end of this page, writing an email to festari.eleonora@gmail.com or calling me at +39 347 9398961.
Second-hand gear
Most of my equipment – camera bodies, lenses, accessories and computer – was bought second-hand or was refurbished. Even if they are not brand new, they still function perfectly and I make sure they continue to be with a yearly check-up. Considering the environmental and climate costs of technology, opting for second-hand gear it’s the most environmentally-friendly choice.
Eco-friendly packaging
The USB sticks, boxes and albums I offer are made by a plastic-free vendor: each product is posted in a reusable cardboard box, without plastic wraps or bubble wrap.
Photo albums for trees
For every photo album I print, I plant a tree for my clients through Treedom. Let’s remember that trees absorb carbon dioxide, protect biodiversity, contrast soil erosion and desertification.
Zero carbon website
Every click made, every video watched, every photo uploaded, every email sent produces emissions. That’s why I’ve decided to offset my website’s carbon footprint through CO2web, a project by Rete Clima that helps me “clean” this website by giving back to nature.
LGBTQIA+ Ally
I support, celebrate and advocate for LGBTQIA+ people and with my job I want to give my contribution to transform the wedding industry and making the world a more inclusive place for everyone.