It’s been a little over week since I was a keynote speaker and participant at Capta, and I’m still reflecting on the experience. Events like this are more than just opportunities to teach or learn—they’re a reminder of why I fell in love with photography in the first place. The energy, the connections, the exchange of ideas, and the passion for the craft make these moments unforgettable.
Light as a Creative Tool
During my workshop on lighting, I had the chance to share insights that I believe are fundamental for every photographer—how light shapes a narrative, how it creates depth and emotion, and how mastering it can elevate any image.
Lighting is not just a technical aspect; it’s storytelling. It’s about understanding how to sculpt a subject, set a mood, and control perception. Seeing the audience so engaged, asking thoughtful questions, and eager to experiment with new techniques was truly rewarding. Teaching is always a two-way street—I walked away inspired, just as much as I hope they did.
A huge thank you to Zhiyun for providing incredible lights for the event. Having access to high-quality lighting gear is essential when demonstrating techniques on stage, and their support made all the difference. I also had the chance to work with Profoto and Westcott gear during my talk, and I’m always grateful to use tools that allow me to showcase lighting in the best possible way.
Reconnecting with Industry Partners
Capta was also an incredible opportunity to reconnect with the brands that support my work. I spent time at the Fujifilm stand, discussing the latest innovations and exciting new gear. I also had the chance to meet with my partners at Álbum Teller, Colorfoto, and Zhiyun, brands that play an essential role in my creative process.
Photography is not just about skill; it’s about having the right tools to bring a vision to life. These brands have been instrumental in helping me do that, and I’m grateful for their continuous support.
A Special Thank You to BlackRapid
At the beginning of my talk, I asked the audience, “What is the most important light?” And at the end, I posed the question again, receiving thoughtful responses from two incredible photographers. As a thank you for their engagement and insight, I was thrilled to give away BlackRapid camera straps. A huge thank you to BlackRapid for their generosity in supporting photographers with these fantastic straps. Their commitment to the photography community is truly appreciated!
Tea Time: Conversations That Matter
Beyond the structured presentations, one of my favorite moments was participating in Tea Time, an open discussion with fellow speakers. These conversations are where the real magic happens—where we step beyond the technicalities and dive into the challenges, the evolution of the industry, and the personal journeys that shape us as artists.
We talked about balancing the art and business of photography, the pressures of staying relevant in an ever-changing field, and the importance of pushing creative boundaries. These discussions reminded me that no matter how long we’ve been in this industry, we’re always learning, growing, and adapting.
The Power of Community
A week later, what stays with me the most is the sense of community. Photography can sometimes feel like a solitary pursuit, but events like Capta remind us that we are part of something bigger—a network of artists, thinkers, innovators, and educators, all pushing each other forward.
I’m deeply grateful for everyone who attended, participated in my talks, shared their stories, and contributed to making this event what it was. I leave with new ideas, new connections, and even more motivation to keep exploring, teaching, and creating.
Now, it’s time to put this inspiration into action. Let’s keep learning, growing, and capturing the world in our own unique ways.
Until next time,
João Carlos
