Documentary Photographer and fascinated with nomadic cultures and forbidden countries.
I’m a Photography graduate who later pursued a postgraduate degree in Anthropology. My photography career kicked off whilst still at uni, and focused mostly in the Music industry. For years I documented the lives and shows of musical artists during their tours, and I loved what I did. However, after a major surgery, I travelled to Colombia to take some time for myself. It was during this period in Colombia that I received the devastating news of the Paris terrorist attacks. Being a solo female backpacker in Colombia, I found myself repeatedly questioned about fear from my peers back in Europe; yet ironically, it was my colleagues and friends who faced danger and harm during this tragic event. This experience left a deep impact on me, as I couldn’t shake off the thought of how easily it could have been me. Here I was, immersed in an incredible experience, embracing a culture different from my own, and connecting with wonderfully hospitable people in a country often unfairly judged. It made me wonder: What if love and kindness exist in the very places we often label as troubled? What if the world is far more beautiful and peaceful than we tend to portray it?
When I returned home to Portugal, I realised I had to go out there and experience the world firsthand. I quit my job, sold my car, gave up my apartment, got a one-way ticket to Moscow – no plans, no schedules. Just spontaneity. Initially, my plan was to circumnavigate the world, but it never quite happened. And you know why? Because I fell in love with the world, and exploring every little piece of it was shaping me into a better human being. Even in the oddest places – such as North Korea – and the remotest places – like Mongolia. During this time I worked in Cambodia and Nepal, fell sick and was admitted into a hospital in China, got my Christmas postcards in North Korea, discovered the world’s largest caves in Vietnam and made so many new friends that are now like my extended family. During this time I was also invited by a travel agency to organise my “designed” tours, which as a documentary photographer, was delightful. Ever since then I have been travelling regularly to Asia and Africa, bringing with me dozens of curious travels who I am humble and honoured to show this incredible world we live in.
Unusual Voyages is the culmination of all these experiences. I wanted to create this project / agency where I could safely lead curious souls to often misunderstood destinations, fostering a world of empathy and generosity free from prejudice or preconceived notions. Our aim is to have a positive impact on local communities, promoting equity and justice in our interactions with both our hosts and fellow travellers who choose to discover the world with us.
Connect with me:
tania.neves@unusualvoyages.com
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