Antonio Coelho

My name is Antonio Bernardino Coelho; I am a 45-year-old from Portugal, a father, and a husband. I am an electrical engineer by profession, though I have had an artistic streak particularly in painting since I was young. I began photography in 2010 using simple cameras, later moving on to purely analog equipment. I bought my first DSLR in 2015 and embarked on my journey into the world of photography; I currently focus on conceptual and creative themes, advertising, architecture, and some nature photography.

One of the themes I explore conceptually is human consumerism and its impact on the environment and society. In this case, the fragility of the oceans. The idea came up in 2022, but I only acted on it in 2023, after a CNN report about the impact of disposable COVID masks and how millions of them ended up in the oceans.

The “Weaknesses of the Oceans” series addresses the concept of sustainability using finite resources responsibly while considering long-term impacts. Sustainable practices foster ecological, human, and economic well-being. Oceans, which generate 50% of the world’s oxygen, are threatened by global warming, pollution, microplastics, and overfishing, leading to species extinction and changes in pH levels. This series raises awareness of these issues and was created sustainably using reused materials.

Ultimately, the series serves as a wake-up call regarding what we are doing to the oceans. We must remember that 50% of the oxygen we breathe is produced in the sea—in the oceans—while the rest comes from the “green lungs” that are trees. An imbalance could be catastrophic for both the planet and humanity.

The challenge lay in capturing consistent tones across almost all the images, given that I shot on different days and at different times using natural light. I believe that was the biggest challenge. Another was perhaps creating a series with varied approaches while using largely the same elements, simply changing the backgrounds or poses.

I try to create my own style and produce work that is different from other photographers. I think that difference ends up being an advantage. I don’t consider myself a photographer of just one style, as I like to diversify.

For me, today, society with its economic fragilities (imbalances among peoples, cultures, and economies), wars, and artificial intelligence—serves as the starting point for my work.

Since I love color and geometry, my work is partly inspired by the artist Victor Vasarely; I adore his work, the geometries, and his “alphabet of colors.” On the other hand, M.C. Escher sparks my interest in surrealism and geometry as well.

Winning a contest or winning in a specific category demonstrates that the work created caught the attention of art critics (in this case, photography critics). This is significant and serves as a springboard for greater global exposure for both my name and my work.

I always say: give it a try! Experience sharpens creativity and allows us to improve from one project to the next. That process of refinement helps us perfect our craft which is crucial. Also, avoid getting locked into a single style; it might not be the main one, or the only one.