January 1st marked my arrival in Salvador. I got there tired from the trip, but the warmth of family and neighbors quickly took over. My mom cooked my favorite meal, while the neighbors were already setting up a barbecue with plenty of cold beer. After a few drinks and feeling the weight of the journey, I took a shower and went straight to bed. Salvador welcomed me with intense heat, the kind that immediately reminds you where you are.
The following days were spent between the beach, the sun, ice cold beer, and the food that only my city knows how to offer. There’s a rhythm to life in Salvador that’s hard to explain and impossible to replace. The ocean, the flavors, the conversations, everything feels familiar and alive. No matter how far I travel, there’s truly nothing like it.
On January 4th, together with friends, we organized a small gathering that turned into a beautiful moment. Live music, barbecue, and more cold beer filled the day with energy and laughter. It was one of those simple events that end up meaning a lot. I captured some of those moments, and you can see a few of the photos here on the blog.
January 8th was a long and special day behind the camera. I started at Feira de São Joaquim, photographing Núbia Moutinho among the colors, movement, and chaos of the market. Soon after, we headed to Gamboa Beach, where I photographed Núbia again, this time surrounded by the sea and soft light. After the session, I stayed for lunch, and that’s when Neilane arrived. The food at the local restaurants was incredible, and the atmosphere was perfect for staying a little longer.
I began photographing Neilane, even as my camera started showing some issues. I kept going, trusting the moment. Along the way, Adriana, a tourist from Alagoas, asked me to take her photos, followed later by Heidi, visiting from Rio de Janeiro. After finishing Neilane’s session, I made a few more photos of the beach and headed home. It was only then that I realized my camera had completely stopped working. A frustrating ending to a beautiful day, but one that will still live on through the images and memories created.
