Photography wasn’t just something I stumbled into. It wasn’t a sudden flash or a career plan drawn on a napkin one night. It started quietly — a simple curiosity, a feeling that moments were slipping by too quickly. Then one day, while trying (and failing) to capture the perfect sunset, I realized something: I didn’t just want to remember life; I wanted to freeze it, to honor it, to relive it.
That small click of a camera became my way of slowing down a fast world.
It became my way of saying: “This matters.”
Today, photography is more than a passion. It’s a way to connect, to notice the extraordinary in the everyday — and it might just have the power to change the way you see your own life, too.
Let’s dive into why I fell in love with photography, and why you might want to pick up a camera (or book a session) for yourself.
Seeing the World Differently
efore photography, I rushed through life.
Deadlines. Responsibilities. Noise. Sound familiar?
When I started to slow down and look through a lens, I began to really see things:
- The way sunlight filters through trees at 4 PM.
- How a genuine smile lights up not just a face, but an entire room.
- Tiny, imperfect details that make a moment perfect — a loose hair, a wrinkled shirt, a spontaneous laugh.
Photography forced me to pay attention.
And once you start seeing life’s little beauties, you never want to stop.
Preserving Memories that Feel Real
hink about the last truly happy moment you had — a family gathering, a trip, a lazy Sunday.
How vivid is it in your mind right now?
The truth is, our memories fade faster than we realize.
Photos aren’t just pictures; they’re time machines.
What I love most is capturing emotions as they are:
- The nervous laugh before a proposal.
- A child reaching up for a parent’s hand.
- The proud, shy smile someone gives when they’re truly seen.
These aren’t just poses; they’re pieces of life.
Photography lets you hold onto feelings, not just images.
A Creative Outlet (Even If You’re “Not Creative”)
Here’s a secret: you don’t need to be a “creative person” to love photography.
I wasn’t a painter. I wasn’t a poet. I didn’t think of myself as artistic.
But photography taught me that creativity isn’t about talent — it’s about curiosity.
It’s about asking:
- What would this look like from a different angle?
- What story does this moment tell?
- What feeling am I trying to capture?
Creativity is a muscle.
Photography was the gym where I trained mine — and it changed how I approach everything in life, not just art.
Connecting with People (and Yourself)
Photography gave me a front-row seat to real human connection.
When you photograph someone, you’re asking them to trust you — to be seen.
It’s an incredible privilege.
It teaches you empathy, patience, and sometimes how to see the beauty in someone that even they don’t realize they have.
And it works the other way too:
When you’re behind the camera, you start seeing yourself differently — more compassionate, more observant, more alive.
Why It Might Matter to You, Too
You don’t need to be a professional photographer to fall in love with photography.
You just need a willingness to see more deeply.
Whether you’re:
- A traveler who wants to capture memories beyond selfies
- A parent who wants to freeze those fleeting childhood moments
- Someone who simply wants to celebrate themselves or someone they love
Photography gives you a gift:
It lets you say, “this mattered” — and make it last forever.
Quick Tips to Start Falling in Love with Photography
If you’re curious, here’s what helped me early on:
- Start simple. Use whatever camera you have — your phone is perfect!
- Focus on light. Photography is all about light. Watch how it changes throughout the day.
- Practice seeing, not just shooting. Pause. Look. Notice details.
- Capture feelings, not just faces. The best photos tell stories, not just show people.
- Print your favorite photos. Holding a physical photo in your hands feels magical.
- Don’t chase perfection. Some of the best moments are imperfect. That’s what makes them real.
Ready to Capture Your Own Story? 📸
If you’re visiting Lisbon — or just want to celebrate a special chapter in your life —
I’d love to help you turn your moments into timeless memories.
I offer relaxed, natural photography sessions in Lisbon, Cascais, Sintra, and surrounding areas.
Whether it’s a solo adventure, a couple’s getaway, a family trip, or a personal milestone, we’ll create photos that feel like you.
✨ Interested? You can reach me here:
- Instagram: @shoots.md
- Email: martim.dotti@gmail.com
Let’s make your memories unforgettable!
Related Articles You Might Enjoy:
- 10 Most Instagrammable Spots in Lisbon for Unforgettable Photos
- Lisbon Nightlife: The Ultimate Fun-Filled Guide for Tourists
- Best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon: Where to Find the Dreamiest Custard Tarts
Thank you for reading — and for letting me share a little piece of what makes life sweeter through my lens.
See you in front of the camera soon! 📷✨