Featuring Nate Salter, Mint Drone Shots 

When Nate Salter launched Mint Drone Shots, he wasn’t just starting a business, he was stepping into a new industry, building a bridge between the concrete construction industry and the wider world. Armed with a drone, a sharp eye and a deep appreciation for the grit behind the craft, Nate set out to show people the complexity, precision and raw human effort that go into every concrete pour. 

“I take photographs and footage of concrete construction because the industry is generally misunderstood by outsiders,” Salter says. “Although I am looking outside-in at these highly complex and physically demanding projects, I have the luxury of being able to capture the moments that all contractors reflect back on, the mental and physical struggles, the incredible stress that most people outside of concrete do not understand.” 

Whether it’s a dramatic aerial view showcasing the mathematics, critical thinking, communication, and labor all in one frame, or a close-up of concrete pouring in real time, Salter uses his lens to document what he calls “true colors”—those raw, honest moments where there’s no room for error. 

Since joining the Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) in 2023, Salter’s business has soared, both literally and figuratively. “Think about it, I get to meet the best personalities in the entire country,” he says. “Since I first joined CFA, I have made some of the best connections with clients, subject matter experts, and just plain good people.” 

Nate credits the CFA conventions in San Antonio, Puerto Rico and the upcoming event in South Dakota as pivotal moments for his growth. “Through CFA, my business has massively grown in reputation and exposure across the entire United States.” He started out filming concrete companies a few miles outside his hometown in Connecticut. Since joining CFA, he’s filmed clients in Missouri, Wisconsin, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York with much more travel and growth ahead. 

More than a networking platform, CFA has become an educational resource and support system for Salter. “95% of my concrete knowledge comes from CFA members, which greatly helps me film and photograph the right things on concrete shoots,” he says. He’s especially grateful to Russ Talpey, the team at Western Forms, Chris Nardone, Bob Slater and Andrew Puopolo: “It’s because of them I grew the confidence, stayed the course, and pushed outside of my comfort zone to where I am now running my business 100% full time.” 

That journey has led Salter to become popular on social media, with a growing following of contractors, suppliers and industry professionals who appreciate his ability to tell their story through the lens. 

For Salter, the CFA isn’t just an association, it’s been a launchpad. “Whether you’re just starting out as a business and seeking to grow, or you’re looking to make stronger connections, CFA is a top-tier organization to join.” 

Learn more about membership opportunities at cfaconcretepros.org.