We are thrilled to announce a new incorporation to the 8AM family. Pedro Braga Sampaio is a brazilian photographer primarily working in the fashion industry with a strong background in journalism.
Pedro’s work masterfully blends documentary and social concepts, capturing the essence of traditional and popular culture. His unique visual tone enriches his fashion photography, portraying the craft of fishermen, carnival festivities, and beach life with the same artistic flair he brings to fashion shoots.
Portraiture is a cornerstone of his work, emphasizing human perspective and character. Born in Minas Gerais, Pedro has lived in various cities across Brazil. His deep appreciation for authentic urban and popular culture is evident in his photography, making his work stand out in the fashion production landscape.
Since relocating to Barcelona in 2022, Pedro has focused on contemporary social themes prevalent in Spain, such as traditional folklore festivals and immigration issues. His versatility and innovative approach make him a valuable addition to any fashion brand.
Pedro Braga Sampaio’s work seamlessly integrates the worlds of fashion and documentary photography, offering a fresh perspective that is both captivating and culturally rich.
Tell us about yourself. How do you describe yourself? In three words
Impossible
It’s 8AM, what do you do?
I have a cup of decaffeinated coffee with oat milk.
Your dream project?
My dream project is always my next project. Currently, I find myself very connected with social issues related to immigration in Spain.
Since when have you been attracted to the world of photography?
My uncle was a photojournalist who worked for the travel section of a Brazilian newspaper. I remember seeing his photos and thinking that photography was the perfect excuse to see the world. After that, I also became a journalist and soon discovered that the camera is a passport to get closer to people and places.
What was your first job?
My first job as a photographer was at a music magazine. Initially, I was a writer, but I soon asked to cover the shows, and that’s how it all began.
How do you define yourself as a photographer?
My intuition and my personality spontaneously connect me with people I don’t know. No shyness at all. It’s also because I strive to be sincere in what I find interesting about others. I wouldn’t be able to lie about liking someone and their style if it wasn’t true. So, I’m also very sincere.
What do you remember about your first job as a photographer?
I remember not wanting to go to work, feeling a lot of anguish and anxiety, afraid of not being able to capture anything, of missing an important moment of the show. But soon I would relax and want to keep photographing non-stop. In the end, I always had a lot of fun. It’s still like that today.
Who are your references in the world of photography?
Martin Parr. I identify a lot with his work. I look at his photos and think I wish they were mine. Among current photographers, I draw a lot of inspiration from Pedro Apolinário, Gleeson Paulino, and Rafael Paiva, Brazilians who beautifully blend documentary and fashion. Among international photographers, Quentin de Briey and Tom Johnson are special to me.
What prompted you to dedicate yourself to this profession?
My uncle was important. Having this image of the journalist who goes to Africa, who goes to Asia, etc. And then watching films like Hitchcock’s Rear Window, Antonioni’s Blow-Up, or Fernando Meirelles’ City of God. I could see myself in those characters, wanting the chance to experience something like that. Seeing the camera in the hands of these very interesting characters as something very powerful was important.
Talent, luck or effort, which do you consider more important?
Effort always.
Tell us about your latest project
My last personal project was about Hilário, one of the last fishermen of Lagoa da Encantada in southern Brazil. I accompanied this man during his workdays to photograph and listen to some stories. He told me that no one wants to be a fisherman anymore, that it is socially seen as something very primitive, but despite this, he entrusts to the sea his knowledge about life and nature. Hilário also told me that if he were an animal, he would like to be a seagull.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get started in the world of photography?
There’s still a long way to go in life and in my career before I can offer advice, but one thing I’ve learned so far is that I can’t try to be something I’m not. My life story, the place where I grew up, my culture, my country, my language—they will always be a part of everything I want to do. Perhaps the advice here is not to avoid trying to be what you’re not, but to delve deeply into who you are.
What advice would you have liked to have been given?
Do not underestimate the importance of backup your files. Organize everything by year, month, and day.
What is the work you are most proud of and why?
In 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, I created and led a social project called POA150FOTOS. Through the sale of photographs, the project raised funds for marginalized communities in Porto Alegre, the city where I lived. We gathered over 150 photographers from all over Brazil for this initiative and managed to raise approximately 20 thousand euros for five different social projects. This work was significant because it showed me that it’s possible to help my community through photography and artistic projects.
