Mathias Fernandes

@mathias.explores

Landscape photographer based in Portugal

A trip to the Azores Islands about 5 years ago made me realize how beautiful it is to travel and explore the world. I absolutely fell in love with the nine volcanic islands lying in the North Atlantic Ocean. They are very far from any other land, so for me it is quite fun to think that one can feel true happiness in a completely remote area – simply breathing fresh air and enjoying the scenery. 

As I discovered the archipelago, I had the opportunity to dive deeper into photography. I started photographing all the changing landscapes with the hope of collecting as many moments as possible. On my way back to the hotel, I used to review each of my photos thinking about how I would edit them later.

Actually, I spent many long nights retouching photographs. One day I realized that photography was indeed my passion. For me, there’s nothing like going back to your photos and remembering the good old days. Can you relate to this?

Eventually I decided to share my art on social media as well. I didn’t have a specific goal in mind, however, travel and photography has given me so many positive things that I thought: “perhaps if I share my experiences with the world, other people can also be inspired to go outdoors and make the most of their lives”. Today, that is the goal when I share a picture. I want to show how beautiful our planet can be and how many amazing moments we can live even if we plan a simple weekend road trip. Sometimes a walk around our city can be as gratifying as traveling to a distant country, specially if you wake up early to see the sunrise!

"The little things we take for granted can have a significant impact in our lives."

As you can imagine, I am a huge fan of sunrises and sunsets. So, if I could go back in time, I would like to experience again my first sunset at the Azores Islands. The landscape was gorgeous, as well as the light. Yet, to experience that moment with my mom was what really made me feel so happy.

"Live your own life and do what makes you feel happy. But don't forget to do it with the people you love the most!”
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