Naples Through a Local’s Eye: Nanette Dorbeck
Welcome to the first installment of Naples Through a Local’s Eye, a series that shines a light on the people who make our community so special—locals with a story to tell and a unique perspective on the place we all call home. Each edition features a different resident, inviting them to share their favorite corners of Naples: the parks where they relax, the coffee shops that fuel their days, the views that never get old.
We're kicking things off with Nanette Dorbeck, the founder of Nanette Katherine Photo. A family, maternity, and newborn photographer—and mom of two—Nanette moved to Naples from Canada and has since built a life and business rooted in connection, creativity, and community.
Here, she shares the places that inspire her work and bring joy to her daily life in Naples.
Tell us about yourself—what do you do, and what makes you passionate about it?
I’m a family, maternity, and newborn photographer here in Naples — and a mom to two little boys myself. I’m passionate about making photos that remind us how much we’re loved and how deeply we belong to each other. Although I’m well-versed in posing people to look at the camera, I’m more interested in taking photographs that reflect this sense of belonging. Life moves fast and it’s not always easy, but having real, heartfelt memories to look back on matters. I especially love when families gather together — grandparents, cousins, all the generations — because those moments are rare and so special to have documented.
I’m a big believer in printed, tangible artwork. It’s so easy to lose track of our photos on devices, to have them buried on a camera roll or to literally lose the images when a hard drive crashes. I love designing heirloom albums and gallery walls for my clients and their children to see day-to-day.
How did you first come to Naples, and what made you decide to call it home?
I’m Canadian and spent my childhood in Ontario and Michigan. I visited Naples for the first time in college and moved here in my 20s, almost on a whim. At the time, there was more economic opportunity here than up north. Having moved far from friends and family, it took me a good 18 months to feel at home here. Eventually I realized that each time I left to visit loved ones or travel, I looked forward to coming home to Naples. I love to get away and I love having Naples as my home base. My artist’s mind needs regular access to natural beauty.
What’s something unique about you or your lifestyle that you feel is enhanced by living here?
I thrive by the sunlight, and Naples sees sun almost every day of the year. My house gets incredible light, morning and evening. Not a day goes by that I don’t admire the morning sun shining through the shades or the light reflecting mini waves from my pool onto my bedroom ceiling. This speaks to the part of me that loves the medium of film… I can’t get enough of the luminosity and colors.
What part of Naples feels most like "home" to you? Is there a place or spot you find yourself returning to time and again?
I’m most at home when I’m with my favorite people, so I can feel at home in any environment that fosters connection. My brother and I catch up on beach walks from 33rd Ave South down to Gordon’s Pass. Another spot I frequent is Kaleidoscope Garden Club. I’m happy pouring over their design books or having coffee with friends in the garden.
If you could design the perfect day in Naples, what would it look like from start to finish? What would you do, and where would you go?
My day begins at home perched in my favorite chair with an almond milk latte and my journal. Next is a breezy bike ride around The Greenway followed by a trip to the Third Street South Farmer’s Market for a spinach empanada and some local mushrooms and greens. On my way home, I stop by Chesterdales Home and Garden–my latest find was a set of vintage champagne coupes. Later in the afternoon, I pack up a salad, drinks, and a single-use camera in our beach bag. The boys and I grab a to-go pizza from Vesuvio’s on our way to Lowdermilk Beach for sunset. We dig in the sand, look for coquinas, and paddle board. I end the day over drinks with friends at Bar Tulia on Fifth.
What’s one hidden gem in Naples that you think more people should know about?
The Naples Preserve is a gopher tortoise sanctuary in the middle of town, right next to Coastland Center. A long boardwalk takes you through a slash pine grove. It’s a shaded 20-30 minute walk, well-suited for young, energetic kids. We all love to spot the tortoises and their burrows, and there’s an incredible climbing tree at the start of the path.
Thank you, Nanette Katherine!
