Our Story
You are probably wondering why Sand and Salt? You might think it is probably an odd name for a company in regards to photography. You think it makes sense when related to food, but still a bit confused on why are they together. Well, I've never been a fan of normal or standard, I believe in being unique.
Sand
Is my love of the beach, and what it inspires in me. As a child, I grew up less than an hour from the beach, but we only made rare trips down to the beach. Since the trips were rare, they were even more special to me. I would spend time walking along the beach collecting seashells, rocks, or driftwood. These items would be my mementos and allowed me to remember the fun time I had once I was back home. Once I hit my teens and early 20's I would try to make more frequent trips, sometimes it was just driving along the coast.
Over the years I've spent my life moving closer to the beach, now living less than 10 minutes away. The Sand, is my happy place. When I need calmness, I really need Sand and Ocean. It inspires me and gives me passion for creativity.
Salt
Is twofold. When you think of the beach, usually two things come to mind...Sand, and the Ocean. As you know, the ocean is Salt Water. Salt Water has that certain feel to it, that certain taste to it when it gets in your mouth, and that certain smell. You might not enjoy the taste of Salt Water, but you know immediately you are at the beach when it hits your face.
Salt is also one of the main ingredients in cooking. Salt brings food to life. Salt adds depth to sauces, vegetables, meats, and everything else. Salt enhances the flavor of cakes, cookies, pies, and other desserts. Without Salt, the world of cooking would be boring and flat.
Make sense now? I figured the best way to name my company would include two of my biggest passions in my life, so Sand and Salt seemed like the perfect mix. As we are a Creative Arts company rather than just a Photography or Food company, I didn't want to limit myself. Feel free to download our little story, which also gives your our contact information.
About the Owner
Craig DeRoss
I’ve been around photography my entire life. I spent my childhood traveling with my little 110 or 126 Instamatic camera. As I got older and got a “real” 35mm camera, I started taking pictures professionally.
I have photographed hundreds of weddings and portraits, as well as had commercial clients such as Century 21, Smith+Noble, Coldwell Banker, Johnson & Johnson, The Apartment Guide, and many others. After many years in the photography industry, as both a photographer and running a commercial and wholesale photofinishing company, I took a long hiatus and joined the corporate world.
After 16 years in corporate America, my situation changed and I decided it was time to find the “Artist” in me and get back to my roots.
The concept I had for Sand and Salt, was not merely photography related, but also a link to my passion for food. I’ve been considered a “food snob” by many friends and family members. I actually disagree with that label, as I am only snobbish to bad food. I am just as happy eating food from a food stand, food cart, food truck, neighborhood dive, etc… as long as it is good. I don’t need a 3 Michelin Star restaurant to be happy (although it does help, just kidding).
The Visual piece is both Photography and Design related.
The Culinary piece involves things such as food photography, small catering jobs, baked goods for special occasions, and teaching people to be more comfortable in their kitchens.