Natalie Fitch first started photographing for the community as a sophomore in high school. Photo Creds: Watauga Yearbook
Chloe Greer, Photo Essay Desk Lead
Natalie Fitch, a senior at Watauga, is heavily involved in many programs, serving as Chief Editor of The Musket and Vice President of Marketing for DECA. An incredibly talented photographer, she earned the opportunity to intern with The Watauga Democrat during her junior year. Her photography has been widely recognized, including winning third place for a Photo Gallery from the North Carolina Press Association. Over the past year, Fitch has rightfully been presented with some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
Starting her junior year, Fitch was able to secure an internship at The Watauga Democrat which led to other amazing opportunities.
“I was an intern for the fall semester of my Junior year, and then they needed a freelance photographer to take mainly sports photos and community events for my spring semester,” said Fitch. “Since I already knew Moss and everything, he hired me. He would tell me of the events, like where to go, what to do, and then they would pay me for it, which is really nice.”
Being recognized for photography skills is a great honor, one that would not have been possible without the support of Watauga Democrat Editor-in-Chief, Moss Brennan.
“My boss at the Watauga Democrat, Moss Brennan, submitted it along with a few other articles that his editors have written,” said Fitch. “It actually came as a surprise to me. I didn’t even realize he submitted it.”
When Hurricane Helene struck Boone in September of 2024, Fitch had the opportunity to photograph up close. Even though challenging at times, Fitch was able to witness the tragedy at a personal level.
“Photographing during Helene was a lot to process. Just seeing the destruction that it had on our county,” said Fitch. “Something that I’ve emphasized a lot in the past few months is that photos, especially during Helene, are more than just what is in the photo. It’s more about who is behind the photo or who is in front of your lens and who you are talking to.”
Rather than just taking pictures, making connections to the people in Watauga County posed an even more important experience to Fitch.
“During Helene, when I was taking pictures around the county I was talking a lot to different people about their experiences and what they were going through,” said Fitch.
This year, Fitch has been able to witness a lot of change through her camera lens. She continues to be an integral part of the student body, capturing significant moments through her photography.
“It gave me a new perspective on life and what I was really doing as a photographer, because I got to meet and learn about so many people and their struggles at the moment,” said Fitch.
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