Photographer and author Celia Montes discusses how she captures the dreamlike atmosphere of Portugal. A journey of exploration through serenity, curiosity, and visual poetics.
1. When did you first get into photography, and what drew you to this path?
I’ve been in love with photography for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until 2020 that I decided to take my first photography course. Since then, I’ve been completely attached to my cameras, they’ve become an essential part of my everyday life.
2. How does the visual aesthetic of Portugal influence your work, and which region inspires you the most?
Since moving to Portugal last year, I’ve found the country incredibly inspiring. The pastel tones of the buildings, the narrow streets, and the soft light create a dreamlike atmosphere. Lisbon especially inspires me,the city feels like a painting in constant motion.
3. Do you feel you have a signature style, and how did it develop? Yes, I’m developing a signature pastel aesthetic, with soft and calming tones. It hasn’t always been easy to maintain, especially because I also love black and white photography, but over time I’ve learned to balance both while staying true to my vision.
4. What are you trying to capture most when you shoot: an emotion, a moment, or a story?
I try to capture a feeling most often calmness, serenity, and peacefulness. I think it’s important to create space for these emotions, especially in such a fast paced society.
5. Is there a turning point in your career that changed everything for you?
After doing my first photography exhibition in Granada, I felt encouraged to continue. It’s incredibly rewarding when people see your work, connect with it, and support you.
6. What is it like making money as a photographer in Portugal, and what are your main income streams?
My main income doesn’t currently come from photography. However, I know several photographer friends who are struggling to find consistent work. I think it depends on your portfolio, the quality you deliver, your networking, and your willingness to adapt to different projects.
7. What do you do when you hit a creative block, and how do you get back into the flow?
When I hit a creative block, I step away from the camera for a while. I go for long walks, visit museums, read, or travel to a nearby town. Changing my environment usually helps me rediscover my curiosity and return with a fresh perspective.
8. What is your favorite piece of gear and why?
My favorite piece of gear is my Canon EOS R50. It’s versatile, lightweight, and allows me to capture intimate moments without distortion. It feels closest to how I actually see the world.
9. What is the most special photograph you have ever taken, and what is the story behind it?
It’s hard to choose just one, but one of my most special photographs is a picture of my grandmother’s hands that I took a year before she died. The way the light entered the room, the wrinkles on her skin, and her beautiful rings made the image deeply meaningful to me.
10. Outside of photography, what things in your daily life inspire or energize you?
I need movement, that’s why I love exercising, especially Pilates Reformer and going to the gym. I also love writing; my passion started when I was seven years old and I recently published my second book!
11. What is your favorite book, and why does it speak to you?
I think One Hundred Years of Solitude is my favorite. I love Gabriel García Márquez and the magical realism of the story inspires me visually, it’s full of imagery that influences the way I take pictures.
12. What is your favorite film or series, and what aspect of it appeals to you? My favorite series is Six Feet Under. I think it’s a masterpiece, and the ending is one of the purest, most beautiful pieces of television I’ve ever seen.
13. If you could give one piece of advice to beginner photographers, what would it be?
Be patient with your process and experiment constantly. Don’t chase perfection, chase curiosity. The more you shoot, the more your true voice will emerge.
14. What are your thoughts on the art scene in Portugal, and do you think photographers receive enough support?
I think the art scene in Portugal is growing, and I’m happy to see new supportive initiatives for photographers. However, there is still a long way to go in terms of funding, visibility, and opportunities.
15. Is there a project, dream, or travel plan you hope to pursue in the near future?
Yes, I’m planning to do a photography exhibition next year in Lisbon. I’m currently working on it and I really hope it will see the light very soon.