Embracing the World Through a Lens: My Journey with Photography
There’s a certain magic in capturing a fleeting moment—a whisper of time that tells a story long after it's passed. For me, photography isn't just about images; it's a tapestry of memories, emotions, and connections that weave together the narrative of my life.
I still remember the warm Brazilian sun casting golden hues over Floripa’s vibrant beaches and streets, where my journey with photography began over 20 years ago. Back then, getting my hands on a quality camera was no small feat. With limited options, I started with a simple point-and-shoot Lumix. Its modest lens became my window to the world, capturing the wonderful landscapes of that magical island and the stories of its people.
Naufragados Beach - Florianopolis - 2005 (Lumix FZ30)
But as with any passion, the desire to delve deeper grew stronger. Soon, I upgraded to the Lumix FZ15—a great camera with an impressive zoom that brought distant landscapes and hidden details into sharp focus. Each click of the shutter was a new story waiting to unfold, a new adventure taking me forward.
In 2011, life took a turn as I traded the tropical embrace of Brazil for the crisp air of Canada. The landscapes changed dramatically—from sun-kissed beaches to snow-capped mountains—but my lens continued to find beauty in every corner. I invested in a Canon EOS 60D paired with an 18-200mm lens, a combination that accompanied me on countless escapades until 2016.
Mont-Tremblant, QC - 2012
However, life has its way of shifting priorities. Building a startup demanded my undivided attention, and my trusty Canon found a new home. For the next seven years, my iPhone became my go-to camera. Surprisingly, its evolving technology didn't hinder my storytelling; instead, it taught me to find creativity within constraints. Every snapshot was a challenge to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.
Yet, there was an itch—a longing that became undeniable during a trip to Australia at the end of 2023. Standing before the great Opera House under a sky ablaze with stars, I felt the limitations of my phone's camera. The beauty of Manly beach, the vibrant streets of Bondi, the spirited wildlife—all deserved more than a quick snap. They deserved to be immortalized in their full glory. As you can see in the pictures below, the quality leaves to be desired.
Upon returning home, I took the plunge back into the world of dedicated photography. Equipped with the new Lumix S5IIx and an array of prime lenses (35mm, 50mm, 85mm) along with the versatile Lumix 70-300mm and Sigma 60-600mm telephotos, I felt like a painter reunited with his palette. The world was my canvas once more.
Traveling has always been more than just visiting places; it's been about immersing myself in cultures and capturing their essence. Europe became a mosaic of memories: the timeless elegance of Parisian streets, the rugged beauty of the Swiss Alps, the vibrant energy of Palma de Mallorca, and the soulful melodies of Fado echoing through Lisbon's alleys.
Rio de Janeiro from the Sugar Loaf
Turkey called me back multiple times, each visit unveiling new layers—from the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where hot air balloons pepper the dawn sky. The serenity of Cyprus and the sun-drenched Greek islands added their own chapters to my story, each frame a testament to the world's diverse beauty.
In 2024, the bustling cities of Shenzhen and Hong Kong added a modern twist to my portfolio. The juxtaposition of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology offered a fresh perspective, reminding me how interconnected yet unique our global community is.
Photography, for me, has always been about connection. It's a bridge to nature, prompting me to tread lightly and respect the environments I explore. It's a conduit to people, allowing silent stories to be told through a single image. This passion didn't just enrich my life; it resonated with those around me. My wife, once a casual observer of my hobby, found herself drawn into the allure of the lens. Watching her grow into an accomplished professional photographer has been one of our most rewarding shared journeys.
As I step forward, camera in hand, I embrace the role of a travel photographer and blogger—and eventually venturing more into the realm of YouTube. Sharing these experiences isn't just about the visuals; it's about inspiring others to see the world through a lens of wonder and respect. You can join me on this ongoing adventure on Instagram @marlonguerios, where each photo is a piece of the larger story.
Being Brazilian-Canadian, my perspective is a fusion of rich cultures—a blend of South American warmth and North American diversity. This duality fuels my curiosity and appreciation for the world's vast tapestry. It reminds me that no matter where we come from, we all share the same sky, the same dreams, the same desire to connect.
In a world that often feels fragmented, I find hope in the simple act of capturing moments. Through photography, we can freeze time, tell stories without words, and perhaps, just perhaps, make the world feel a little more united.
Life is a series of moments strung together not by chance, but by the choices we make to embrace them. Here's to the journeys yet to come, the stories yet to be told, and the images yet to be captured.
