Today we’d like to introduce you to Renato Brea
Hi Renato, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born in Brazil but grew up in the Dominican Republic, where my father’s passion for photography had a profound influence on me. My journey started in high school, where I was inspired by iconic photos of Domingo Batista. From there, my curiosity for visual storytelling grew, and after discovering street photography in Sweden, I decided to pursue a formal education in Mass Media and Communications at PUCMM in my native Santiago.
In Spain, I earned a second degree in storytelling through images at Séptima ARS Film School, which honed my skills and passion for photography and filmmaking. In 2012, I moved to New York City, where I specialized in portrait photography. I spent years working in fast-paced environments, capturing everything from corporate headshots to special occasions. This experience taught me precision and efficiency, but I also felt a desire to create something more authentic and creative.
After ten years of living and working in New York, I relocated to Nashville, where I decided to take the leap and start my own photography studio—Rattle Box Studio. I’ve always been drawn to bold, non-traditional portraits, so I built the studio with the mission of giving my clients a photography experience that is personal, energetic, and rebellious, whether they’re graduating or getting their first professional headshot.
Nashville has been the perfect place to grow Rattle Box Studio because the community here is so creative and supportive of small businesses. I’ve been able to connect with local schools and companies, creating campaigns and portraits that tell meaningful stories. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I’m even more excited for what’s ahead.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—like any creative business, there have been ups and downs along the way. One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from a stable career in New York City’s corporate photography scene to launching my own studio in Nashville. Moving to a new city meant starting from scratch, building my network, and establishing Rattle Box Studio’s identity in a place where I didn’t have established connections.
Another challenge has been the balancing act of wearing multiple hats. As a solo entrepreneur, I’m not just the photographer—I’m also the marketer, the accountant, the creative director, and the customer service rep. That was a huge shift from my previous roles, where I focused solely on the photography itself. Learning how to manage the business side of things, from client acquisition to financial planning, was a steep learning curve.
In addition, finding my niche in a competitive industry took time. Nashville is home to many talented photographers, so it was crucial for me to stand out by offering something different. The process of refining my style, branding, and services to appeal to my target audience—specifically graduating students and professionals—took some trial and error.
However, these challenges have been invaluable in shaping the studio. Every struggle has pushed me to grow, learn, and adapt, and I’m proud of the unique brand I’ve built. These experiences have made Rattle Box Studio what it is today—a place where I can offer bold, dynamic portraits and a personalized experience.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Rattle Box Studio, I specialize in portrait photography, with a focus on creating bold, unconventional graduation photos and professional headshots that stand out. My work is known for its energetic and rebellious style—especially in the graduation space, where I aim to break away from traditional, cookie-cutter shots and create something that truly reflects the individuality and spirit of my clients. I love working with college students and professionals across Nashville, helping them celebrate major milestones with images that leave a lasting impression.
What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with technical precision. I’m most proud of offering an experience that’s not just about taking photos, but about crafting a narrative around each client’s unique story. For graduates, this means capturing the essence of their journey, while for professionals, it’s about providing a headshot that reflects their personality and ambitions in today’s competitive market.
What also distinguishes Rattle Box Studio is the personalized experience I offer. From dynamic photoshoots that mix up locations and looks to delivering high-quality images quickly, I ensure that my clients feel involved and catered to throughout the process. Additionally, I’ve developed a reputation for creating engaging social media content—offering clients not only stunning images but also reels ready to post, so they can share their moment instantly across platforms. This combination of artistry, efficiency, and a fresh, contemporary style really sets Rattle Box Studio apart from others.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
For inspiration, I often turn to Instagram. It’s a fantastic platform where I discover new trends and connect with fellow creatives. I find that it fuels my photography and helps me stay current in my craft.
I love soccer, Forza Inter! So when it comes to reading, I’m a big fan of James Montague and Jonathan Wilson. Their vivid storytelling about football not only captivates me but also inspires my creative approach to photography. Podcasts like The Totally Football Show and The Football Ramble are my go-tos for humor and insight. They keep me entertained while I’m working on edits.
Music is a vital part of my creative process I play guitar everyday. I love walking around with my old film camera, listening to fast-paced tracks while I do street photography in black and white on 35mm. It energizes me and enhances my perspective, allowing me to capture unique moments.
Overall, art in all its forms—whether visual, musical, or literary—continues to inspire me, pushing me to bring a unique vision to every shoot.
Pricing:
- Standard Solo Session (1 hour): $150.00
- Custom Pricing: The final cost can vary based on: Client needs, Job requirements, Number of people being photographed, and the Complexity of the shoot. Price Range: Depending on the specifics, sessions can range from $25.00 to $1000.00. per portrait.
Contact Info:
