In Conversation with Marco Kesseler

At Reia, we are drawn to the power of thoughtful creativity and the way it brings us closer to the natural world we inhabit. This time, we had an inspiring tête-à-tête with photographer Marco Kesseler, whose images speak softly but deeply about our connection to the environment. 

Raised with a deep appreciation for nature and now based at the edge of Dartmoor, Marco's work is an intimate study of light, seasons, and the subtle beauty of everyday moments. In our conversation, he reflects on his journey, his commitment to sustainable practices, and the projects that lie ahead.

Your photography beautifully captures our relationship with the environment. What first drew you to explore this connection through your lens?

When I was younger, I spent a lot of time visiting family in Greece where there was a deep respect for wildlife and the outdoors, so even growing up in London, I’ve always been fascinated by our relationship with the natural world. I learned to appreciate how the seasons shape our surroundings and affect light, and as I became more involved with photography these interests continued to stick by me.

As a carbon-negative photographer, sustainability is clearly a core value for you. How do you weave eco-conscious practices into your creative process, both behind the scenes and in the images you create?

I definitely don’t have a perfect system - so I’d love to speak with others who are trying to make a positive environmental impact on photography. For me that means offsetting every aspect of my practice through a UK based carbon charity and trying to be more selective about collaborating with brands that share similar environmental values.

Your work has received global recognition, yet it remains deeply rooted in nature. How do you stay grounded and maintain that connection to the natural world while navigating such a fast-paced industry?

Several years ago someone gave me some sound advice to photograph what you love. I’ve slowly been trying to incorporate this into my work - outside of photography I find peace in cooking, eating and exploring and I’m lucky to be in a position where I can now bring elements of those into the subject of my daily shoot life. 

In your day-to-day life, do you have any rituals or practices that help you slow down and practice self-care?

I don’t have any specific rituals, but I try to make a point of getting outside each day, especially if I have a day of editing in front of a screen. I’m mostly based at the edge of Dartmoor now, so I’m lucky that I’m a short trip from climbing a tor or swimming in a river at the end of a day.

Lastly... Looking ahead, are there any upcoming projects or ideas you're excited to explore, especially in terms of your relationship with the environment?

I’m working on a few exciting projects with a couple of different brands as well as slowly chipping away at a personal project looking at the changing ecology and relationship of wildflowers in urban spaces. More to come soon!

About Marco:

Marco Kesseler is a carbon negative photographer based in the UK, with a keen focus on portraits, food and stories that explore our connection to the environment and shape the land around us. From studies of the natural world to issues surrounding agriculture and land rights, works have often been a collaborative process, working with communities to document traditions, celebrations and exploring the intersection between the natural and manufactured world.

His work has been recognised by The Sony World Photo Awards, Futures Photography selected by Trennial of Photography Hamburg, Magenta Flash Forward, D&AD and Magnum Photos IdeasTap Award amongst others.

Marco gained a 1st in Press & Editorial Photography from Falmouth University. Clients and publications include The FT Weekend, TIME, National Geographic, Libération, Guardian Weekend Magazine, MR PORTER, TOAST and The NHS, with past works exhibited at Somerset House, The National Portrait Gallery, Paris Photo and Selfridges & Co.